16 October 1999
Issued by: Office of the State President
I am proud to send a word of congratulations and encouragement to all matriculants who are beginning their end of the year examinations on Monday, 18 October 1999.
Matriculation marks the conclusion of the first 12 years of formal education. It is therefore an achievement in the life cycle of every human being. It also open the doors to the quest of all humans to make the world we live in a better to be by acquiring knowledge and skills.
This is even more important for South Africans who, until recently, were barred from many avenues of human development and achievement.
On behalf of all parents, educators and indeed the government I wish all the entrants for the matriculation examination in 1999 success, confident in the knowledge that they have worked hard to prepare themselves for the exams.
Government is aware that many of our children continue to learn under conditions which are not conducive to excellence. Every day we are doing our all to improve the situation. I have, however, noticed that there are many in our communities, urban and rural, who have conquered these adverse conditions and achieved results we are all proud of. I call on the class of 99 to emulate this example and strive to acquire the needed skills to rebuild our country and people.
Good Luck.