The ANC Youth League in the Free State intends attending all matric dances in the province as part of its campaign to support matric pupils during examination time.

"Being an African organisation, the ANC Youth League appreciates  that there is no individual who is born a genius," ANCYL Free State  said in a statement on Wednesday.

"These efforts, small as they are, therefore constitute the deliberate, practical effort to create impetus towards realisation of the ideal [economic freedom through education]."   

The league's leadership planned to engage with school governing bodies and senior management at the dances to convey their well wishes.

Its 'Get Focused' support campaign would also lead and co-ordinate prayer services for pupils.

"These services must also serve as motivational sessions...to get outstanding achievers locally...to inspire and encourage examination candidates."  

The league called on community members to discourage pupils from  participating in 'less meaningful' activities like parties during exam time.

Through the campaign it was hoped pupils could still achieve good marks, despite the long school holidays over the Fifa World Cup and the three-week long public servants strike, which left many  teachers out of action.

"We support the 80% target set by the Free State Department of Education.We believe that with the right support and creation of conducive and enabling environment, our young people can still achieve quality marks."