of hope deferred
On the last day of 2008, 589 912 matrics received the exam results which would have such an impact on their futures. A staggering 38% of them failed (224 166 young adults) and are likely to add to the 60% unemployment we already have among 18 - 35 year olds in South Africa. I interviewed some of the lucky few who not only passed, but obtained distinctions and bursaries for their university education. They were all quick to acknowledge that they owed their success to the tuition they had received. Sadly, that tuition was not at their schools. The students I spoke to were all part of the Metropolitan Actuaries on the Move Programme which identifies learners in township schools who have a flair for mathematics and science and enrols them in a two-year programme that builds those skills. The programme offers extra English, maths and science training on Saturday afternoons as well as courses in study techniques, computer training, life skills and career counselling during school holidays. ...