The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, is providing 60 grade 12 learners from schools in Hanover Park with a safe space to prepare for the 2020 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations over the period 5 November 2020 to 11 December 2020, while they write their exams.
Students have been selected to take part in the programme from Groenvlei High School, Crystal Secondary School and Mountview High School. Health and safety protocols have been put in place to ensure learner and staff safety. Pending the success of this pilot project and funding available, it will be replicated in future on a broader scale.
Minister Fritz said, “The study support programme aims to ensure that learners, who are most at-risk of not being able to write and/or to complete their examination due to high crime and violence in their areas, be considered to partake in the programme. We will also consider learners who are experiencing socio-economic hardship and household or interpersonal challenges.”
Minister Fritz added, “The study support programme will accommodate a total of 60 learners at the Chrysalis Academy for the duration of their exams. It aims to ensure that they are safe, can focus on their studies and not be distracted by the difficulties they might otherwise face at home.”
The learners will have a structured programme for the duration of their stay which includes study sessions, additional lessons and tutoring, career guidance and will also receive the required psycho-social support, where there is a need. The facilitators will include principals and educators, volunteer tutors, and youth development coaches.
Minister Fritz continued, “The Chrysalis Academy is a key safety partner in the execution of the Western Cape Safety Plan. They play an important role in driving youth and school safety initiatives in the priority areas and the study support programme is one such initiative to ensure that learners can complete their examinations safely. In addition, we have received support from Councillor Antonio van der Rheede in ensuring the support and buy-in of school principals. I wish to thank and acknowledge all out partners.”
Minister Fritz continued further, “To all matriculants writing this week, I wish you good luck and remind you to stay focused on the task ahead. More than ever, it is important that you keep your heads down and concentrate on completing your academic year. Your education is the surest way to safeguard yourself and provide you with opportunities.”
Cayla Ann Tomás Murray
Spokesperson for Minister Albert Fritz
Tel: 021 483 9217
Cell: 064 121 7959
Email: Cayla.murray@westerncape.gov.za