This time every year, celebrations abound throughout the land as parents, family, teachers and matrics themselves enter into a shriek fest frenzy when the results are released.
Unfortunately, also latching on to the revelry are the politicians, who seize upon the opportunity to steal credit with their own public breast-thump swanking when the outcomes are positive – undeserving as it is, given their seemingly best efforts to keep our education system malfunctional.
When the outcomes are negative, of course, they scurry into their hovels with all kinds of feeble mutterings – and when all else fails, “why don’t we just drop the pass rate again to say 25% to boost the figures, comrades.”
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Implosive “innovation” has never been so prevalent as now.
If there is one government segment which no doubt secretly welcomes the Covid pandemic, it is the education sector.
Never before had they been handed such a gift exoneration card to throw out when the chips are down.
As far as the results are concerned, I have my own opinion about the tsunami of latter-day distinctions achieved, but that is a debate for another day.
But while one happily shares in the congratulatory atmosphere of those matrics who excelled, a very important consequence of the final examinations is too often downgraded to obscurity amid all the noise of jubilation – the desperation and despair of those who failed to make the grade.
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The embarrassment causes them to instantly relegate themselves as no-hopers, sinking deep into the abyss of depression and an acceptance of a future of self-inflicted mediocrity.
Worse still is the alarming number of beautiful young people who commit suicide, unable to overcome the shame of being regarded as second-rate.
Modern-day society’s relentless emphasis on achievement “uber alles” causes much psychological damage to children who fall outside the “gifted” ambit.
Too many snooty, status-befuddled parents classify their children as gifted, no matter how blunt their pencils are.
By all means, acknowledge the top achievers, but it is crucial to maintain a healthy balance.
To those who failed, remember that in the grand scheme of things matric exams or a bagful of degrees do not necessarily define you.
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Not everybody is destined to become brain surgeons of rocket scientists.
Everyone has a unique set of talents. There’s no denying diplomas or degrees are advantageous, but take a step back, get perspective and pull yourself out of the darkness of despair.
There is a whole world of opportunities out there, avenues such as entrepreneurship and technology in which a positive frame of mind, hard work and determination can bring success and prosperity.
Consider that.
This should serve as encouragement that instead of subjecting oneself to defeatism, you can set yourself free.
Don’t sell yourself short, just go for it!
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