NPO calls attention to vital role of after-school programmes ahead of exams

The Learning Trust reports that after-school programmes help curb dropout rates and foster a more educated youth in South Africa.

As the schools start preparing pupils in other grades for their final year exams, an NPO is highlighting the importance of after-school programmes.

The Learning Trust said pupils who participated in these programmes were less likely to drop out of school, leading to an increase in educated young South Africans.

The organisation’s Charlene Petersen-Voss said that statistics showed that mentor-driven programmes had helped learners in under-resourced schools achieve matric pass rates of around 85%.

“After school programmes, they give young people safe spaces where they can learn, where they can grow. We see every day how these programmes help learners stay in school, discover their talents and build a brighter future, giving them hope where they can foresee something better for themselves.”

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