Basic Education Minister, Mrs Angie Motshekga, addressed out-of-school youth at the Gerald Wright Hall in the Overberg District in the Western Cape Province on 28 April 2019. The Minister appealed to young people to make the right decision and enrol for the Second Chance Matric Support Programme (SCMSP). “A matric certificate opens the doors to a better future owing to Higher Education and Training and Skills Development Programmes.” Minister Motshekga re-iterated.

The Minister used the opportunity to acknowledge the support that Mr Andrew Madella, MP, provided to the out-of-school youth in the area who, because of previous choices or circumstances beyond their control, could not obtain their matric certificate. According to Minister Motshekga everyone deserves a second chance at improving their circumstances.

Addressing the packed to capacity hall, Minister Motshekga said, “Education is the only solution to improve and rebuild your life and access opportunities to enrol in government programmes, post matric studies, employment or skills development opportunities. We will support you if you are committed.” Minister Motshekga mentioned that the DBE will require more ECD practitioners in the near future, adding that another emphasis will be on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills in response to Fourth Industrial Revolution Education to achieve the National Development Plan (NDP) outcomes.

The Grabouw, Villiersdorp, Sunshine Farm, Zwelihle, Botrivier and Masakhane community youth development leaders provided district-specific details for centre registrations and requests for class attendance during the question and answer sessions. 

In closing, the Minister appealed to the youth to use their time, energy and the opportunities provided through Government resourcefully, and to register with the SCMSP.