According to analysts, only 50% of learners starting school this year are likely to get to Grade 12. A number of factors may contribute to them not being able to finish their 12 years of education.
These factors include:
- Lack of parental support.
- Unsafe learning environments.
- Bullying and school violence.
- Teenage pregnancy.
- Household or family troubles.
Xolani Fakude, the Head of the Secretariat at the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), stated that he believes the union is part of the solution to ensure that learners finish their 12 years of education. “We are going to play our part as education workers,” said Fakude.
Fakude stated that the union fully supports the Department of Basic Education (DBE) in its learner retention strategy. However, the union believes the programme will only be successful if it has the proper resources.
The responsibility does not only lie with the department and teachers but parents are also encouraged to take an interest in their children’s education.
Parental support and guidance ensures that learners feel motivated to reach matric and also study further to gain access to their desired career field.
SADTU has also raised the issue of school safety, as a safe learning environment will allow learners to go to school and focus on their schoolwork without worrying about their safety.
Through the provision of safe learning environments, learner attendance may even increase. All these factors will ensure that learners finish their 12 years of education.
