Deputy Speaker, the matric class of 2010 has had to endure more challenges this year than any other matric class of our new democracy. The public servant strike and the Soccer World Cup caused major upheaval and saw students out of the classroom for longer than usual.
Schools were left to come up with their own recovery plans and, owing to the unresolved salary negotiations, unions appallingly instructed teachers not to attend school and even resorted to destructive activities. Throughout this, the department gave the impression that they were not interested in the impact this was having on senior learners.
It caused a lot of grievances between Members of Parliament, parents and also learners themselves as the matter was not attended to with urgency. With fear running high that matric pupils would be far from ready as the examinations started drawing closer, we are however pleased that, according to reports, the first day of the matric exams has been successful.
Unfortunately, the Soccer World Cup also cost matriculants precious preparation time. Although the department has said that the school year had not been shortened despite the extended June school holidays, the impact thereof has done so.
The ID hopes that the matriculants can rise above all these challenges they were forced to endure this year. We wish them every success for their examinations. I thank you.