The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has urged parents and learners to prioritise mental health as Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube prepares to release the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results later today.
The organisation says the period following the release of matric results can be emotionally overwhelming for many learners, regardless of their performance.
SADAG’s Project Manager for Education, Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, is encouraging learners who are struggling with anxiety, disappointment or pressure to seek support, reminding them that matric results do not define their future.
Parbhoo-Seetha says learners should allow themselves to feel disappointed if their results are not what they had hoped for, but warns against facing those feelings alone.
“If your results are not what you had hoped for, allow yourself to feel disappointed, but try not to sit with those feelings alone. Talk to someone you trust, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that there are other options to explore. You can always rewrite, do supplementary exams, apply to a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college or enroll in a skills programme. This is not the end; it is simply a different route.”
She stresses that a setback does not mean the end of the road, but rather a different path forward.
Meanwhile, Minister Gwarube has shared a message of encouragement with anxious matriculants who will soon access their results.
“To the matric class of 2025, I want to congratulate you for coming this far, for your discipline, your effort and your resilience. You should be proud of yourselves, and I want to remind you that South Africa is proud of you.”
Parbhoo-Seetha has also appealed to parents of learners who may not have passed to offer support and reassurance during this difficult time.
“Parents’ reactions are critical. Remember, you are a parent before anything else. Lead with empathy, not anger or blame. Tell them you love them, that you are proud of their efforts, and that you will overcome whatever the future holds together.”
Learners and parents who need additional support can contact SADAG on 0800 567 567 or via WhatsApp on 076 882 2775.
The matric results will be published in all accredited newspapers from tomorrow. The publications will display examination numbers and marks, but not learners’ names, surnames or identity numbers. Learners will also be able to collect their results from their schools after 10am tomorrow.
