SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT LENDS SUPPORT TO MATRICULANTS AHEAD OF FINAL EXAMINATIONS

By Lorato Modisenyane.

• The collaborative Final Examination Preparation and Academic Support Programme united the Department of Social Development, Department of Education, and the Institute of Mathematics to inspire and prepare matriculants for their final examinations.
• Elisa Magama and Sibusiso Sibeko, former beneficiaries of foster care from IM’s Springs Centre, demonstrated the impact of departmental support and personal resilience in facilitating life transformation and promoting self-reliance.
• Speakers from the Department of Basic Education and Wits Plus emphasised discipline, positive attitude, and responsible technology use as critical ingredients for academic success.

As part of Social Development Month, the Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with the Department of Education and the Institute of Mathematics (IM), hosted the Final Examination Preparation and Academic Support programme at the Springs Civic Centre last Saturday.
The initiative forms part of the 365 Days Child Protection Programme, which aims to raise awareness about the prevention and protection of vulnerable children from abuse, while strengthening intersectoral collaboration and accountability among key stakeholders in child care and protection services.
Addressing attendees, social work manager Ms Lesego Mathebula urged parents and caregivers to provide better care and protection for their children, and to create a conducive environment for studying. Mathebula also encouraged learners to study hard and set realistic goals without placing undue pressure on themselves, warning that excessive stress could negatively affect their mental health.
Mr Ntsane Masiloane, CEO of the Institute of Mathematics, expressed gratitude for the partnership with the department, describing it as an acknowledgement of the dedication of the Mathematics class of 2025. He encouraged learners to work hard and learn from their peers, reminding them that circumstances should never define their potential.
“It is with great pride that I announce that one of our former foster children and beneficiaries, Sibusiso Sibeko, has now achieved a self-reliant vision as the newly appointed Manager of the Institute of Mathematics Springs Centre,” Masiloane added.
Pfuluwani Mashapa, National Coordinator for Physical Science from the Department of Basic Education, highlighted that education is a societal value and must be treated as a priority. He encouraged learners to make use of the Siyavula Application, limit screen time, refrain from excessive social media use, and use the internet wisely.
Natalie Zimmelan, CEO of Wits Plus, stressed the importance of discipline, a positive mind set, and commitment.
“Dress smartly, know your value, show respect to those around you, and remain inquisitive,” she advised.
A representative from Komatsu, Ms Ayanda Mabena, shared that the company offers bursaries for engineering students and noted that its four-year partnership with IM has been fruitful, as both organisations advocate for education. She encouraged learners to take advantage of bursary opportunities.
Former foster care beneficiary Elisa Magama also shared her inspiring story, saying she refused to let her circumstances define her. With support from the department, she became one of the province’s top matric achievers and is now completing her articles to qualify as a Chartered Accountant at one of the country’s top four firms.