By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Sithabile Ntshalintshali’s strategy was that she had a study plan that enabled her to manage her time appropriately.
It’s because matric can be very stressful. “So it helped me to know which topic or chapter to focus more on and not to neglect any subject to a last minute thing,”said Sithabile who obtained seven distinctions.
“From the beginning of the year I was aiming to get 7 distinctions, but as time went on and there was lots of pressure, I aimed for 5 distinctions, said the 18-year-old woman.
She is gonna be doing bachelor of accounting science at Wits.
Sithabile arrived in Joburg (Alex) in 2017 to stay with her mother for greater opportunities. But in 2020, she went to her uncle’s place in Katlehong because her mother was unemployed and things were hard.
Her mother was forced to return home in KZN. “Then, I had to travel everyday to school, which was kind of a challenge. Because, sometimes there was traffic and I got to school late. Plus, I had to wake up very early.
“I had a lot of support from my family. Especially my granny, even though she was in KZN. She would always check up on me and my school work.
“I would love to thank every teacher, special thanks to St Mary’s (Ikusasa Lethu program) and everyone who helped me achieve this achievement.
“I’ll would love to plead for Trust Funds/ bursaries to help.”
Sithabile’s advice to the matriculants of 2022 is that they must start working hard from day one and remain committed to their studies.
“They must not put too much pressure on themselves, because matric can be draining. I would also love to urge parents who have kids doing matric to support them in every way.
“Because, it’s not easy. Sometimes you will get marks you are not proud of and you will want to give up. So it’s best if you have people around to encourage you.”
