bThe United Independent Front (UIF) wishes to congratulate all pupils, both young and old, who defied the odds to write and pass the 2006 matriculation examinations.

bThe United Independent Front (UIF) wishes to congratulate all pupils, both young and old, who defied the odds to write and pass the 2006 matriculation examinations.

The UIF views this as an important event in the lives of all South African matriculants. Because many pupils are unable to progress to further education for a variety of reasons, a matric certificate becomes their key to success.

However, the party finds it unacceptable that for three years in succession the country continues to experience a decline in the national pass rate.

Education MECs must fire those principals who are not performing at their optimal level. Although many schools lack libraries, laboratories and other basic resources, we cannot continue to ignore the fact the some schools lack leadership. This in turn leads to low morale among teachers.

We are pleased that more pupils are writing higher grade mathematics and physical science. This is encouraging because these skills will eventually benefit the country.

The UIF would also like to congratulate all those teachers who have consistently worked so hard over the last few years. Their determination and hard work have yielded the sweet fruits of success for their pupils.

The UIF honours these men and women because they persevered despite their meagre salaries and a lack of resources at their schools.

Ike Kekana

UIF president, Polokwane