Party less, ANCYL tells matrics
2010-10-11 15:35
Johannesburg - The ANC Youth League in Gauteng wants matrics to reduce the time they spend partying and to instead prepare for their final examination.
"Young people must know that the gratification they receive from parties is short-lived, but an investment in their education guarantees their future in the long term," said the ANCYL Gauteng in a statement on Monday.
The league has started a "Silence Campaign", in which it calls on matrics to slash their partying time and calls on communities to observe "quiet time" every evening to give students a "distraction-free" environment in which to study.
"We need shebeen proprietors, club owners and entertainment promoters to actively dissuade learners from coming to their establishments and events, as well as desist from advertising and promoting to learners during this period.
"We are certain that this campaign will also benefit many of our varsity students who would no doubt also require such support."
The campaign forms part of a programme by the Gauteng ANCYL to support matriculants as they prepare for their final exams.
Strike
It was prompted by the many difficulties faced by matriculants and pupils in 2010, including the disruptive public sector strike.
"Whilst we respect the right of educators to embark upon industrial action and appreciate the need for adequate compensation given the vital contribution they make to society, we reject categorically any attempt by anybody to undermine the education of an African child."
The league commended the basic education department for establishing study sites as part of its recovery plan after the strike. It called on the Congress of SA Students to ensure that pupils make use of these sites.
The league also came out in support of a joint initiative by the international marketing council and the department of basic education to encourage South Africans to wear school uniforms on Fridays to support the matric class of 2010.
"ANCYL members and members of society are encouraged to pledge their support by wearing school uniforms (or any items thereof) every Friday during the tenure of matric examinations.
"This will not only serve as a positive reinforcement in nation building and positive role modelling, but also remind society of the responsibility we collectively hold to ensure and support the education of our youth."
The ANCYL in Gauteng said making sure that young people were skilled and qualified was integral to the league's broader aim of attaining economic freedom.
"It starts in school and here we cannot fail.
"We believe that an entire province in support of the class of 2010 can make a significant difference to the examination outcomes and call on all residents of Gauteng to become active supporters of these... campaigns."
- SAPA
