Matrics: The 3 times that anxiety can creep up during final exam prep
The upcoming exams are a culmination of 12 years of hard work, and it can feel daunting to reflect on the fact that it all comes down to how you are going to perform in a few weeks’ time
The next few weeks are going to be a whirlwind for South Africa’s Matric Class of 2019, as they cram in their final exam prep while trying to remain calm, collected and focused ahead of each assessment. This is a tall order given the mountains of work that they need to conquer, while also juggling the admin of ensuring that they don’t drop the ball on any of their subjects.
“It goes without saying that you should now be revising as best you can, to ensure you perform as well as possible when final assessment time rolls around,” says Sifiso Mnisi, Head of Programme: Faculty of Humanities at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s largest private higher education institution.
“However, all the preparation in the world will count for little if you are in a state of mental disarray, and don’t have a handle on doubts and anxieties that may creep in,” he says.
Mnisi says that there are specifically three times when fear and panic may take hold during coming weeks, and each of these situations should be identified, faced and dealt with so that equilibrium can be restored in the minds of learners: 1. In the weeks and days before exams, as time to revise runs out, 2. During exams when it can be hard to determine where attention should be focused and 3. In the actual exam room.
“Firstly, we advise parents and learners to always, always, keep a sense of perspective, and for learners to keep doing their best knowing that no matter what happens, there will always be options. So don’t at this stage waste valuable emotional energy thinking about the what ifs. Banish these concerns from your mind, and resolve to cross future bridges when you get to them.
“Your focus should now be squarely on revision and preparing to sit for exams, not concerns about the future,” he says.
Challenge one: Keeping calm as exams draw closer and time to revise runs out
The upcoming exams is a culmination of 12 years of hard work, and it can feel daunting to reflect on the fact that it all comes down to how you are going to perform in a few weeks’ time.
Until now, you may have felt that even if you are behind, tomorrow is another day. However with the tomorrows running out fast and furiously, many learners may start feeling concerned and even a little panicky.
“When you start getting worried, remember that the best antidote to anxiety is action. Don’t forget how much work you have already put in, and trust the process. If you are having particular concerns about a certain subject, make time to complete another past paper, or chat through your concerns with your teacher.
“And don’t let your fear turn into procrastination because you can’t face the mountain of work you still want to get through. Use your time productively, ensure you get enough exercise and sleep, and push all other thoughts aside. Resolve to address your worries – if they still exist – after the exams, and throw all your energy into doing the work, rather than thinking about the work that you still need to do,” Mnisi says.
Challenge two: Keeping calm during exams, between papers
Once the big day arrives when you sit for your first paper, the whirlwind will intensify. There will be almost no time left for deep revision, and you’ll have to make a call on what to study with the limited time you have, and also how to study. Past papers? Reading through all the work again? Going back to your notes and diagrams?
“The key here is to stay the course and stick to what has worked for you until now. Don’t be distracted by your friends swotting up on a certain subject in a certain way. You know where more attention is needed, and what method of study works best for you.
“It is also very important not to dwell on what lies behind you. If things didn’t go well when you wrote a paper this morning, and you have to prepare for your next paper tomorrow, apply your focus and energy where it can still make a difference, on that which lies ahead. Again, shelve away the worry until later, to deal with only if your concerns actually turn out to have been valid.
“Equally, don’t let a good performance on one paper make you sit back and relax. Work for each and every point, as even marginal improvements in performance can have a major impact on your post-Matric options.”
Challenge three: Keeping calm in the exam room
Even with the best preparation, the realities of the exam room mean that some learners may experience a mid-exam meltdown. These are not unusual, and is often the result of burnout, lack of sleep and the buildup of stress over the past few months.
Key to dealing with panic in the exam room, is to know what is happening.
“If you feel yourself starting to breathe rapidly, become light-headed or like you are out of your depth and can’t do this, recognise what is going on and take back control. Understand that you are panicking, and regain your focus. Then resolve to do as well as possible on this paper and to do what you can. Again, action is the antidote to anxiety.
“Read through the paper and start on those questions that you are able to answer, then go back to those ones which are more challenging. Do as much as you can with the time you have available, and keep perspective while keeping calm.”
Mnisi says that the final exams are not only a test of knowledge, but also of mettle under pressure.
“A calm and focused mind is one of your strongest weapons. By keeping the big picture in mind while at the same time ensuring you are as well prepared as possible, you will be able to perform to the best of your ability.
“And keeping the big picture in mind means that you understand your exam performance, while important, is not the last word on your future. Regardless of what happens, whether you perform above expectations or not as well as expected, there are countless roads that lead to success.”
ADvTECH Updates
JSE-listed ADvTECH, Africa’s leading private education provider, is pleased to announce the appointment of John Sikiotis to the role of Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), effective 1 August 2025. Sikiotis brings a wealth of experience in strategy, IT, business development and commercial leadership across a wide range of industries in multiple geographies including Africa, the Middle East and Asia. He is a qualified CA(SA) and holds the professional designation of Chartered Financial Analyst. He is also a member of SAICA. The new role of GCOO has been established to support ADvTECH’s dynamic growth and expanding operations locally and internationally. “John’s strategic expertise and global perspective make him a valuable addition to our leadership team,” commented ADvTECH Group CEO, Geoff Whyte.
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It is undeniable that AI in education, even though still in relative infancy, has a multiplier effect on student outcomes. An overview of the substantial impact of individualised learning on student performance over the past few years, combined with an insight into daily advances in real life, has the potential to raise concern about the role of human educators in classrooms. Are teachers becoming obsolete? Not quite. While it is true that AI’s role is growing by the day, it is in fact not replacing teachers, but rather changing the role of teachers, an education expert says. “We have, over the past 3 years, seen a 20% improvement in student performance, with AI and individualised learning having become the order of the day,” says Desiree Hugo, Academic Head at ADvTECH Schools. AI in education isn’t a case of students having access to ChatGPT – it is a vastly more considered strategy leveraging proprietary tools and platforms. ADvTECH’s ADvLEARN Intelligent Tutoring System is a prime example, utilising AI to craft individualised learning paths that allow students to advance at their own speed. This system empowers data-guided instruction while fostering independent learning across various subjects. “Adaptive learning technologies leverage data-driven analysis to personalise educational content, pacing, and assessments based on each student's unique needs. These solutions, which include intelligent tutoring systems and learning management platforms, enable educators to tailor instruction efficiently without increasing their workload, when integrated effectively,” says Hugo. “For students, this creates a customised, engaging, and encouraging experience, whether they’re building core skills or exploring complex topics. For educators, it delivers real-time insights to refine teaching approaches, ensuring all students achieve progress.” AI systems are fast moving in the direction of students being able to learn completely independently, which then raises the question – what about the teachers? Will in-person schools still be a thing? Or will future learning consist of young people working alone, in front of their screens? “Adopting best international practices in AI implementation is critical to staying at the forefront of educational excellence. However, the narrative around AI in education must be clear: AI is a powerful tool to support, not replace, teachers,” says Hugo. “The human element in teaching, in particular empathy, creativity, and mentorship, remains irreplaceable, and AI’s role is to enhance these supportive opportunities, ensuring teachers remain central to the learning experience, while time-consuming repetitive tasks become the domain of AI.” The integration of AI into education really is a best-case scenario, allowing overworked teachers to get back to their unique strengths, Hugo says. WHY TEACHERS WILL REMAIN AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE While AI excels at processing data and delivering personalised content, it lacks the human qualities that ensures an exceptional, holistic education. In the age of AI, the role of teachers will remain important in the following areas: Emotional connection and empathy - Learning is deeply human, driven by relationships. Teachers understand students’ emotional needs, motivate them through challenges, and celebrate their successes. No algorithm can replicate the encouragement of a teacher who notices a student’s potential or the trust built through years of mentorship. Fostering creativity and critical thinking - AI can provide information, but teachers guide students to question, innovate, and think critically. In a world increasingly shaped by AI, skills like ethical reasoning, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, nurtured by teachers, are essential. Curricula, like the IEB, IB and Cambridge systems, emphasize these skills, and ADvTECH’s commitment to global standards positions its teachers as key drivers of this development. Cultural and contextual nuance - South Africa’s diverse educational landscape requires teachers who understand local contexts, languages, and cultural dynamics. Teachers bridge the gap between AI and real-life context, ensuring learning is relevant and inclusive. “The fear that AI will replace teachers stems from a misunderstanding of its purpose, combined with the stunning realisation of its ability to improve student outcomes. But AI is not a substitute for human connection. Rather, it is a catalyst for unlocking teacher potential. It empowers teachers to do what they do best: inspire, guide, and transform lives. “Imagine a classroom where AI handles repetitive tasks, provides real-time student insights, and suggests tailored resources, while the teacher focuses on sparking debates, nurturing talents, and building confidence. This is the future that educational institutions must champion - a future where technology supports human excellence, not replaces it.”
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY A PRESCRIBED OFFICER AND THE COMPANY SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by a Prescribed Officer and the Company Secretary of the Company.
ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY PRESCRIBED OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATE OF A PRESCRIBED OFFICER OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by ADvTECH Prescribed Officers and an associate of a Prescribed Officer.
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Community law clinics play a vital role in ensuring access to justice in South Africa, annually serving thousands of people who are unable to afford legal services and representation. In response to the overwhelming demand for these lifeline services, SA’s leading private higher education provider has been steadfastly expanding its footprint of law clinics across the country, culminating in the recent launch of a mega-clinic in Randburg. The IIE Varsity College’s Randburg Community Law Clinic is a game-changer for the community, says Soretha Venter, senior attorney and Director of the clinics in the region. “It’s our most ambitious effort yet to bridge the gap in access to justice, ensuring marginalised individuals can exercise their legal rights while equipping our students with real-world skills,” Venter says. “Law clinics like ours promote fairness, equality, the rule of law, and transform lives by providing essential legal services while empowering our students to become empathetic, skilled legal professionals dedicated to social justice.” Venter says community law clinics play a pivotal role in addressing the systemic barriers to justice faced by underserved populations, particularly in South Africa, where economic disparities often limit access to legal services for many vulnerable citizens. “These clinics provide free legal advice, mediation services, and representation in matters such as family disputes, housing issues, employment conflicts, and consumer rights, empowering individuals who cannot afford private attorneys. By bridging this gap, law clinics ensure fair and equitable treatment for all, uphold human rights, and promote social cohesion by providing avenues for resolving disputes and addressing grievances.” Beyond resolving individual cases, they foster social justice through community outreach, offering workshops and campaigns on critical issues like domestic violence and discrimination, which educate the public and enhance awareness of legal protections. “The benefits to communities extend beyond immediate legal solutions, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and social change. Law clinics not only resolve disputes but also build trust in the legal system by providing accessible, compassionate support. They advocate for systemic improvements, collaborating with nonprofits and government agencies to address broader societal challenges,” Venter says. For instance, initiatives like family law mediation and post-litigation support for clients, as planned by the IIE Varsity College Randburg mega-clinic, offer sustainable solutions for low-income families. By equipping communities with knowledge and resources, these clinics strengthen social cohesion and promote a culture of justice, ensuring lasting impact for individuals and society as a whole. In addition to providing communities with free legal representation and support, law clinics ensure that SA’s future legal practitioners receive a real-world, holistic education. This year, more than 120 final-year students from three campuses will gain hands-on experience at the Randburg clinic, under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Groups of around eight students at a time work Monday through Thursday, immersing themselves in consultations, legal drafting, research, and court visits. “Students are exposed to every facet of a real law firm. This practical training not only hones their skills in client interaction and case management but also instils a deep sense of social responsibility,” says Venter, adding that the clinic prepares students for South Africa’s unique legal landscape while fostering a commitment to pro bono work. The Randburg mega clinic boasts 3 attorneys’ offices, 4 candidate legal practitioner spaces, a boardroom with state of the art digital and online facilities and 4 consultation rooms. It currently has 2 full time attorneys, 2 candidate legal practitioners and a legal intern, and the team will be growing in months to come. Since its launch, it has received 105 applications, of which 43 are still active matters that are attended to on a daily basis. It is expected that these numbers will have doubled by the end of 2025. The Randburg mega-clinic builds on the success of IIE Varsity College’s earlier clinics established in Durban North (2022), Pretoria (April 2024), and Cape Town (July 2024). Another clinic is set to open in Nelson Mandela Bay in August 2025.
Monde Nkosi presents his latest episode of the Education Investment Podcast in video on YouTube and audio on Spotify, Apple and all major podcast platforms https://linktr.ee/educationinvestment?utm_source=linktree_admin_share In this episode, Leading a Schools and Higher Education Group with Geoff Whyte (CEO of ADvTECH Group), we explore leadership in a combined schools and higher education group serving more than 100,000 students across multiple countries including South Africa, Kenya, Botswana and Ethiopia. Geoff presents his investment and social impact case for ADvTECH and independent education. Geoff also shares some personal stories about his journey from growing up in Scotland; to living and working in multiple countries including England, Russia and the Netherlands; and moving to South Africa in the late 1990s.
02 June 2025: ADvTECH Group, Africa’s leading private education provider, is pleased to announce the launch of Rosebank International University College (RIUC) in Accra, Ghana. Registrations will open on 15 June 2025, ahead of the first academic semester which begins on 1 September 2025. This will be followed by a second enrolment cycle in February 2026. Situated in Accra’s prestigious Airport Residential Area, the RIUC campus will offer a wide range of high-demand qualifications, from doctoral programmes to diplomas. Fifteen qualifications have been accredited to date in fields including Business Administration, Digital Marketing, Information Technology, Service Management and Hospitality. The new RIUC campus builds on ADvTECH’s existing international presence in Kenya, Botswana, and Ethiopia, reinforcing its commitment to providing quality education across the African continent. “We are delighted to launch our highly successful Rosebank International brand in Ghana, expanding our tertiary education footprint outside South Africa for the first time. We look forward to delivering the superior academic outcomes and excellent student experiences we are known for in South Africa in Accra,” says ADvTECH Group CEO, Geoff Whyte. Students will benefit from a wide array of extracurricular activities and access to foundational academic, financial, digital literacy and psycho-social support programmes. The campus will also employ facial recognition access for enhanced security.
