The Post commended for empowering young voices and their education.
Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) is pleased to award a GLAD[1] to The Post for its thoughtful and respectful reporting on the experiences of matric pupils as they prepare for their trial examinations. The article, “Matric pupils at Chatsworth Secondary School share their preparation strategies ahead of the trial exam”, (26/06/2025 ) written by Yoshini Perumal, offers a positive example of media that centres children’s voices, their education, and acknowledges the complex realities of their final year of school.
In this article we meet Grade 12 learners from Chatsworth Secondary School: Aaraa Sayed, Liv Mile, Thisha Moodley, and Phumelela Ngcobo who share their study habits, the academic pressures they face, and their ambitions for the future. Importantly, the journalist ensures that the children’s voices take centre stage, allowing their reflections and experiences to shape the narrative. This approach upholds Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)[2], which guarantees every child the right to be heard in matters affecting them.
Each learner is quoted directly and meaningfully, providing insight into the personal sacrifices and coping strategies they employ to manage their workload and emotional well-being. From altered sleep routines to giving up extracurriculars, these young people show commitment, resilience, and maturity which is challenging stereotypes that often see and describe the youth as not as interested in their education and irresponsible.
The article also demonstrates ethical reporting by including the learners’ names and ages with their consent, and it situates their voices within a broader context of support, acknowledging the role of families, teachers, and school programmes like extra Saturday classes. This inclusion of adult perspectives adds credibility without overshadowing the learners, showing a well-balanced addition of perspectives.
Furthermore, by portraying learners not as passive victims of academic pressure but as active agents navigating a pivotal year, the article affirms their dignity and right to education. This aligns with Section 28(2) of the South African Constitution[3], which states that “a child’s best interests are of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child.”
MMA commends The Post for recognising and promoting the agency of learners and for reporting that empowers rather than sensationalises. MMA looks forward to engaging with The Post on stories involving children.
Written by Siphokazi Pikoko
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1]represent good practice, where the media has promoted the rights and welfare of children, referred to as “GLADs”
[2] https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-child
[3] https://www.concourt.org.za/index.php/71-children-s-rights/section-28-children/133-section-28-children