Matriculants, DANCE your way to success!

We were invited to speak at ElethuThemba High School's 2023 matric valediction. We discussed topics such as self-motivation and finding strength in prayer and music, alongside  Ms. F. Mokubela from the department of education.

We were invited to speak at ElethuThemba High School's 2023 matric valediction. We discussed topics such as self-motivation and finding strength in prayer and music, alongside  Ms. F. Mokubela from the Department of Education.

This topic was suitable because you will have to stand and push alone at some point in your life. And, in order to overcome the challenges and achieve success, you will need to know how to motivate yourself and keep strong. It was that time for the 2023 matriculants of ElethuThemba.

Now, it is the class of 2024’s turn. To them and all matriculants in the country, I convey the same message I conveyed to the class of 2023.

Listen carefully to this advice and use it. It will work wonders for you. This is the advice: DANCE!

At this point, prayer and music are very helpful. No, not amapiano or gqom music. You'll be fantasising about having fun and even drinking alcohol if you listen to such music, and before the song is finished, you'll be at the closest booze store.

Rather, listen and dance your heart away to pop or gospel songs that carry messages that strengthen your resolve to succeed. Listen carefully to the lyrics, understand them, believe the message, allow it to reach the deeper areas of your mind and heart, and then sing along out loud as if you wrote the music yourself. THIS IS THE DEEPEST FORM OF PRAYER. It will do you wonders, as music plays a crucial role in forming our thoughts, emotions, and actions.

While at ElethuThemba, though, I noticed that a good and clean environment, both physically and mentally, precedes learning.

The school is run by the wonderful Ms Mhlongo who is held in high regard by both the children and the community. I heard from the children and community members how, since her arrival as principal of the school, things have improved.

In one accidental meeting with an ex-student turned hair salon owner, the ex-student proudly told me of the big and positive changes brought by Principal Mhlongo. She said that Principal Mhlongo has lifted the standards of the school so much that every parent wants their children to go to ElethuThemba, and it hurts them when they can't get in.

You will see and feel why this admiration exists when you visit the school yourself. The first scene that will welcome and refresh you is the happy interaction between the principal, teachers, and kids. You'll also notice that the gardens and classes are well cared for. The school's environment, without a doubt, encourages mental clarity and makes learning easier - giving visitors an up-close look at what the ideal educational setting ought to look like.

This is despite the school being a government school and, in a poverty-stricken area.

Such an environment definitely precedes learning, study, and successful completion of matric.

I hope all principals were able to create this environment in their schools. Because to ask for 100% matric pass rate, when you are not giving a 100% is not fair. 

I hope that every principal was successful in establishing this environment in their respective schools. Because it is unfair to demand a 100% matric pass rate when you are not giving a 100%.

Alas, at this stage, it is up to every child to make the best of their circumstances. And they can!

We wish every child success in their upcoming exams.