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Have your say / Sê jou sê Do you think it’s OK that a child can choose to quit school when they turn 15?

6 February 2024 · Platinum Bushvelder

Have your say / Sê jou sê Do you think it’s OK that a child can choose to quit school when they turn 15?

In South Africa, children must attend school from age 7 to 15, or until they complete Grade 9, whichever comes first. While it’s understood that some learners may not be able to complete their matric (Grade 12) due to various reasons, the question arises: Should the decision to leave school early be in the hands of the children themselves? Or should the expectation be to stay in school until completing Grade 12?        

No! At 15, a child isn’t ‘adult’ enough to make decisions that only an adult must make. And if you’re a parent, you must force your child to finish school. How can you expect to get a decent job without matriculating? 
Nelia Pieterse
No, it’s definitely not OK! You shouldn’t drop out to lounge around lazily and waste time. If your goals are not academically focused, I personally believe you should still finish matriculating, so that if your plans don’t work out, you at least have a Grade 12 certificate. 
Johanna Pearl

PUBLIC POLL: THE RESULTS ARE IN!
Do you think it’s OK that a child can choose to quit school when they turn 15? 
NO: 99%
YES: 01%