The 2012 academic year got off to a good start in Gauteng, with Members of the Executive Council (MEC) visiting schools across the province to assess the state of readiness and give messages of support to both learners and teachers.
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Qedani Mahlangu together with Emfuleni executive Mayo Greta Hlongwane visited three schools in Sebokeng, Vaal.
Mahlangu started at Khutlo Tharo Secondary school where she met with the school principal to discuss whether there were enough supplies to kick start the year. She also encouraged learners to work hard from day one and respect their teachers.
“You have to start preparing for your exams from today, water your garden as soon as now, be punctual and always respect your teachers,” said Mahlangu.
Addressing the school's first assembly, the MEC also congratulated the class of 2011 and applauded teachers for the work well done.
She lambasted parents for not playing an active role in their kids' education and leaving all the responsibilities with teachers.
“Parents should also be involved in their kids school work, they should refrain from leaving the responsibility to teachers alone. Respect and discipline starts at home, “said Mahlangu.
She discouraged learners from walking into sheebens during school hours and warned that the government is hot on the heels of those who operate in close proximity of schools and sell alcohol to learners and that they will be dealt with accordingly.
Mahlangu encouraged learners to utilise the services of the nurses that visit their schools every month or better still focus on their education and abstain from sexual activities.
According to school teachers, eight matric learners fell pregnant at the school and all of them failed their exams.
She also encouraged learners to consider Maths and Science when choosing their subjects and apply early at tertiary institutions to avoid the scenario that happened at the University of Johannesburg last week.
At Montsosi and Mogogodi Primary schools, the little faces of 50 orphaned and underprivileged kids beamed with pride and joy as Mahlangu handed out school uniforms sponsored by the Department of Education as part of Bana Pele programme.
Mahlangu planted one tree at each school. She wished all learners good luck for the 2012 academic year and told them to never give up on their dreams.
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