With the school year almost passed, Free State Prime Minister MAQUEN have urged Letsoha-Mathae to concentrate on their studies without worrying about challenges at home.
Maqueen acknowledged that many students come from disadvantaged backgrounds and struggle to pay essential things such as uniforms and food. However, she assured students that government support systems are present. “This is a crucial time for our students and our attraction is for them to concentrate on their education and to leave everything to the government. We have the National School Nutrition Program, which ensures that students are fed nutritious meals, and we also offer uniforms for those who cannot afford it,” said Letshaha Mathhae.
She added that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) program of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) program offers extra intervention by helping qualifying students with uniforms.
According to the prime minister, this support is a effort in which teachers, social workers, district council members and employees in the community are involved in identifying students in need. “Neighborhood councilors in particular need to know more about their community than anyone else. We humble them to help us identify children so that the government can come their help,” she said.
Letsoha-Mathae also expanded her best wishes to assess 12 students who are currently writing their preparatory exams.
Compiled by Clement Matroos
Clement Matroos
www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za