The Mayor of uMshwathi Municipality, Cllr Mandla Zondi, successfully hosted a special prayer service for the Class of 2026 matric learners at Cool Air Hall.
The programme brought together government leadership, education stakeholders, organised labour, faith-based organisations, parents’ representatives and matric learners to pray for divine guidance, protection and success as learners prepare for their final examinations.
The event was attended by the Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, Hon. N. N. Boyce; uMshwathi Municipal Councillors, led by the Municipal Speaker, Cllr S.M. Mbatha-Ntuli; and representatives of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, including circuit inspectors led by Mr Dube. Principals and educators from 23 secondary schools within the municipality also attended, alongside representatives of labour unions SADTU and NATU, School Governing Bodies (SGBs), and faith-based organisations represented by Mongameli Nzama and Rev. DS Ngema.
The primary objective of the prayer service was to seek God’s guidance, protection and blessings for the matric learners, while praying for peace, strength, wisdom and a smooth examination period free from disruptions and negative influences.
In her address, the Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, Hon. N. Boyce, encouraged the matriculants to remain focused, prepare thoroughly for their examinations, manage their time effectively and approach their studies with discipline and determination. She emphasised the importance of hard work and commitment in achieving positive academic outcomes.
The Mayor further encouraged the matriculants to work hard and give their best in the examinations, expressing his confidence that their efforts would yield positive results. He extended his best wishes to all the learners and expressed the hope of welcoming them to the Matric Excellence Awards Ceremony in January 2027, where outstanding academic achievements will be recognised and celebrated.
The prayer service concluded with a message of hope, unity and encouragement, reminding the Class of 2026 that success requires faith, dedication, preparation and perseverance.