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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Fourty-three matrics from all six local high schools were given a merit award this week for their final exam results.
The mayoral merit event, which takes place annually, was held in the Mossel Bay Town Hall on Tuesday, 8 February.
Awards are handed, not only to those who achieved an A aggregate as their final mark, but also those who rose above challenging circumstances to shine, were given a monetary incentive and congratulated.
Principals also received certificates of merit based on the matric pass rate achieved.
Several matrics were not able to attend, since they had already started pursuing their future dreams as young working adults or students at tertiary institutions.
Among the guests were parents and family members, principals of the schools, officials of the Western Cape Education Department and members of the Mayoral Committee.
Executive mayor of Mossel Bay, Alderman Dirk Kotzé, in congratulating the Class of 2021, said it was a true test of character when you successfully went through a matric year amid a global pandemic. He referred to Covid-19 and all the challenges it created. "This is a great step forward towards a successful future."
Kotzé shared some of his own challenges during his matric year, which included his mother being hospitalised due to a car accident. He sympathised with matrics who had lost their parents to Covid-19.
Kotzé commended parents for their support and involvement, which was a testimony of their children's achievements. He urged parents to commit to making time for their children, despite challenges such as a busy schedule.
In closing, Kotzé referred to three attributes that secured success.
"If you work hard, conscientiously and with discipline, you will do well. Success is perceived in many different ways. I believe that success is when you go to sleep at night without too many worries. Remember this is not a race. It is a ladder, take it step by step. Kotzé also pointed out the dire need for schools in Mossel Bay.
"Being at the forefront of the semigration to the Garden Route, we need more schools."
He said the municipality was in contact with Western Cape Minister of Education, Debbie Schafer, regarding this.
"Priortiy goes to metros. There, up to 20 000 people seek new opportunities, creating an even higher need for schooling. However, by continuing to highlight this need, Mossel Bay may move up on the priority list," he concluded.
Mossel Bay's top matric achievers with Alderman Dirk Kotzé, executive mayor of Mossel Bay (front, centre) and members of the Mayoral Committee. Photo: Cornelle Carstens
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