A surprise oversight visit was recently paid to Badirile Secondary in Khutsong, Carletonville by Gauteng MEC for Education, Barbara Creecy. The two pronged visit was aimed at looking at the progress of the Holiday School Improvement programme intended to help grade 12 learners and to talk to the stakeholder of education in that area.
MEC Creecy was accompanied on this trip by the Executive Mayor of Merafong City, Councillor Papi Molokwane, officials from the head office and those from the Gauteng West district.
Addressing the stakeholders, MEC Creecy said she was in the Khutsong to check the progress learners are making pertaining to the programme.
"I wanted to hear for myself what the learners are going through as this programme is aimed at helping them with the problems encountered by them during examinations. I also wanted you to help the department in encouraging parents to ensure that learners go to school and do their homework and check their progress," said MEC Creecy.
During the class visit at Badirile Secondary, MEC Creecy told the learners that her department was mandated by Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga to improve grade 12 results by 80 percent in 2014.
"I want to hear from you how are you performing and what kind of challenges are you faced with. I'm also here to encourage you to attend programmes of this nature diligently so because they are designed to help you with your final examinations," commented MEC Creecy.
All learners were in agreement that attending the programme has benefited them a lot especially looking at subjects like mathematics and science.
Mathapelo Mapitsi said since she has been attending the programme she has a better understanding of physical science.
"I'm happy with this programme because it has helped me a lot. Previously I was having challenges with this subject but now I can confidently say that I'm starting to understand it," said Mapitsi.
While other learners were pointing out challenges that they were faced with, Mapule Mamela came with a suggestion which MEC Creecy said they would look at to see how they can help.
"What I have gathered is that most learners are having difficulties comprehending physical science. I would like to suggest that chemistry be treated separately from physical science. This would go a long way in us understanding both subjects," said Mamela.
Addressing the learners, Executive Mayor, Councillor Papi Molokwane encouraged them to work very hard and pass with good marks. He said good marks will enable his municipality to help them with bursaries to further their studies.
"You are aware that at the municipality we were able to help those grade 12 learners who last year got university exemptions. One top learner was even given extras like a lap top and extra money to help him finish his tertiary studies. This is what I want to get from learners at Badirile Secondary," said Executive Mayor Molokwane.
MEC Creecy excited the learners more when she informed them that she had tickets for the coming 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament. She said for the learners to qualify, they had to sign the register to prove they had attended the programme regularly.
"It's a pity that the tickets I have would not be enough for all of you. What is going to happen it that your names will be put in a ruffle and those that are drawn will be given tickets to attend the tournament," said MEC Creecy.
Issued by: Department of Education, Gauteng Provincial Government
12 April 2001
Source: Department of Education, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.education.gpg.gov.za/)
