The Gauteng Department of Social Development acknowledged the excellent performance of hundred (100) top foster care grant beneficiaries who wrote their matric in 2020, at the department's Head Office Auditorium in Johannesburg.
Even though many of them could not secure bursaries to further their studies at the institutions of higher learning, the department's Social Work Manager, Khosi Msibi congratulated the learners and encouraged them not to lose hope.
"We are here to honour your hard-earned performances displayed in your matric results despite challenges of the pandemic. We are saying you must know that in order to be successful in life you need to be focused and courageous, never get discouraged because some of you did not get admission at Universities and TVET, just make sure that you apply as early as possible this year. You must believe in yourselves, go out there and face the world head-on".
Msibi added "Go and make us proud, knock every door of the institutions of high learning. Not every door that is closed is really closed, knock until the person on the other side says I cannot help you.
All hundred learners from five regions received a tablet each that will help them with their studies as a token of appreciation from the department for their hard work.
Speaking at the gathering, 18-year-old Octovia Manzi from Fochville in the West Rand Region thanked the Gauteng Department of Social Development for its interventions, saying if it wasn't for the government, she would not have achieved the results.
"I am so grateful for the support and protection the department has given us throughout the encouragement I got from social workers who sacrificed everything to make sure that I pass my matric so that I can have a brighter future".
The motivated Manzi who is registered to study Electrical Engineering at the Central Johannesburg College, is excited about her future, however, she is aware of the task ahead before she could reach her destination.
Another learner who shared a similar sentiment was 18-year-old, Bongani Matjeke from Mabopane who is studying Tourism and Hospitality at Richfield College. He said his main objective was to complete in record time.
"I don't want to disappoint my granny who has been there and raised me in difficult conditions, I want to make everyone proud "said Matjeke. He promised to use the tablet for education purpose only.
Director for Restorative Services and Service to Children, Keba Ntwampe, said it is very encouraging to see foster children so determined to break the cycle of poverty and reach great heights in life. "The courage and tenacity you displayed in overcoming the hardships that you have gone through indeed shows that you are in control of your lives. We know that the advent of covid-19 there were just many challenges, but you managed to pull through and as the department we are proud of you",
Ntwampe also acknowledged the excellent work done by foster parent, saying they carry a huge responsibility to mold the behavior of our children for them to become better people in future.