IN the midst of celebrations and joyous laughter at Curro Heritage School stands an 18-year-old who has given his all and gone the extra mile to become the school’s top achiever in the 2025 matric class.

Presenting a calm demeanor, Shahil Koovarjee admits that he is definitely a maths enthusiast, dating back to his childhood. This numbers’ passion is evident in achievement in Pure Maths (97%) and accounting (89%). And also in additional subjects, maths statistics, maths calculus, and maths finance, where he attained 85% overall. Other scoops include Afrikaans (80%), English (82%), life orientation (97%), life sciences (85%), and physical sciences (92%).

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The self-proclaimed businessman has his hands full with academic endeavours and forex trading.
“I have always been into numbers; it is an undeniable passion,” he said. After maths, Shahil says he is deeply into physical science, particularly chemistry, for which he achieved 92%.

His inspiration did not only come from his hunger for success, but an older brother, who achieved nine distinctions and excelled in maths too.
“I have a study routine which requires me to study every day, from the first day of school until the end. I had to sacrifice my five-hour fixation with video games and choose this path. I am glad it has paid off. “I cannot say these results surprised me, but I was really hoping for this achievement,” Koovarjee added.

His mother, Kirthi Koovarjee, beamed, “I feel so blessed. Shahil has put in a lot of hard work and dedication, not only in his final year but throughout his schooling life. This is definitely a moment of pride.”

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For Shahil, 2026 brings a new chapter. He is heading to the University of Cape Town to study Actuarial Science. “It is a course I have been dreaming of ever since I can remember. I do have a second option in Data Science, if my first choice does not pan out.”

After the four-year degree, Shahil’s eyes are set on starting his work life in either Asia or the USA. His humble advice to the class of 2026 is simple, yet effective: “Be consistent in your study efforts, revise past exam papers, and listen to the advice of teachers and parents.”
This weekend Shahil heads to Johannesburg where Curro’s mother body will honour its top achievers around South Africa and abroad.

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