Graduates give back to their community by assisting new matrics

“MOST young people do not go to tertiary institutions because they lack information on how to apply and choose careers.”

These are the sentiments of Raymond Mayekisa, one of Matatiele’s graduates who volunteered to assist matrics in applying to tertiary institutions. Mayekisa and Phumelele “Lady-Ocean” Potwana, both from Matatiele, will be visiting rural schools in Matatiele to share information about careers, bursaries and job opportunities.

They are ambassadors of an initiative to help rural children to reach their dreams.

Speaking to the Fever, Mayekisa said, from September 1 to September 30, they would be visiting rural schools to help matrics not miss application deadlines.

“Five rural schools and two township schools have supported our initiative. We will bring laptops to selected schools and assist matrics in applying before the cut-off date,” he said, adding that most pupils buy smart phones for social media rather than for searching for opportunities.

He said rural pupils complete matric with good results but fail to go to tertiary due to lack of information. He said late applications also have an effect on pupils. “When we visit schools, we won’t disturb teaching and learning, we will use a classroom and share information. Many people, including government employees, will be joining,” he said. Potwana said tertiary institutions accepted online applications these days so matrics need to grab this opportunity with both hands.