On behalf of the Western Cape Education Department, I should like to take this opportunity of wishing the Matric Class of 2007 every success in the Senior Certificate Examinations.

This year is a historic occasion, as it is the last year in which the Senior Certificate examinations, as we know them, will be written. We also know that this has been a stressful time. Many of you have been studying under difficult circumstances and much effort has gone in to making this a successful year for all Grade 12 learners in all our schools. This will also be an emotional time for many of you as you say goodbye to your schools and many of your friends.

Nevertheless, we urge you to remain focused, as you complete your study programmes. These exams will be the most important of your school career. They will play a key role in determining your prospects for further study and the world of work.

We wish you well as you start a new chapter in your lives. We are proud of you, for making it thus far. This reflects your strength of character and determination to succeed. We have every confidence in your ability to do so.

We urge you to build on the education you have received so far and to contribute to growing our wonderful province and country.

To those of you who do not succeed this time around, do not give up. As a province, we offer plenty of opportunities for you to complete your schooling and to study further. Special arrangements have been made for this year's matrics to complete the Senior Certificate between now and 2011, if necessary.

As you write matric, you have the full support of the provincial government, the Western Cape Education Department, schools, parents, families and communities. We wish you every success.

Kind regards