AS some pupils head back to school this week, others unfortunately won't be joining them due to different circumstances.
There are young people who have dropped out of school due to pregnancy and others venturing into careers at a young age.
Daily Sun spoke to celebrities who shared advice for pupils entering this year's academic journey.
Former stripper and reality star Noluvuyo Sodela, popularly known as Bubbly Sodela, said pupils should count themselves lucky to be going to school.
“Congratulations for having a privilege to go to school, some people can't. Use this precious time to acquire knowledge that should be the main focus, remember to aspire before you expire and it's impossible until it's done. We all got abilities to become what we wish. I never went to a model c school but I'm a business owner and a Director at Aesthetics by Bubbly Sodela based in Gqeberha and my business is doing great,” she said.
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Barcadi pioneer Thabz Le Madonga emphasised the importance of education.
"The music industry is a trend, and the trend is the music. A trend is something that doesn't last a lifetime. So, if you drop out of school because of that, it's going to be a huge problem when your season ends because a music career is like a soccer career. It's seasonal," he said.
Musician Tebogo Montse, popularly known as Pepsin, advised pupils to avoid bad company and concentrate on their studies.
“Don’t follow bad company. It’s better to focus on your studies than fall into peer pressure. Peer pressure is there, and it is alive, but it is up to the pupil to know what is important,” he said.
He said there are long term benefits for staying in school.
“You can’t do anything without education. When you sign contracts and deals you need to be able to read and write so you can understand what you are getting yourself into,” he said.
Singer Oupa Moema, professionally known as Machance, stressed the importance of education even for artists.
"Even when you are an artist, you need to go to school. This is so that even when you get a record label that wants to sign you and they give you a contract, you can understand it," he said.
Amapiano star Deep London said: "Excuse your excuses. You are uniquely equipped to bring your vision to life. Stay focused and don't allow others' opinions to determine your destination. Believe in yourself and don't compare yourself to anyone. Life is not a race."
