An open letter to the Class of 2025

MY FELLOW South Africans, the children of the soil ...

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Today, I invite you to pause and pay tribute to the Class of 2025, our matriculants. You have remained in school. You have shown up. You have learned and acquired knowledge. You have endured, persevered, and given it your all. Such dedication deserves recognition and respect.

As results draw near, we acknowledge that this season can be challenging. Anxiety can stem from various sources: the fear of not passing, uncertainty about admission into institutions of higher learning, and concerns about securing funding or financial support throughout one's academic journey. These pressures are real, burdensome, and profoundly human.

It is crucial that we, as parents and adults, fully appreciate this moment and stand in solidarity with the Class of 2025. Be assured that, regardless of the outcome, we are proud of you for reaching this point. Your determination is significant. Your effort matters, and, more importantly, you are valued.

Class of 2025, if your results do not meet your expectations, I urge you to extend grace to yourself. Yes, there may be feelings of pain and disappointment - this is entirely natural. However, do not allow despair to lead you to harm yourself.