Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School learner fights all odd to pass her exam

She was robbed of her school bag and cellphone, pushed from a moving train and left with a serious head injury – just before her final matric exams.

But this did not prevent Nyeleti Mashele from Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School to pass her matric with two distinctions.

Against all odds she obtained 88% for life orientation and 81% for geography. She rounded this off with 62% for English, 72% for Afrikaans, 63% for mathematics, 75% for life sciences and 76% for physical sciences.

It all happened at Van Riebeeck Park Station on August 11 on her way home to Olifantsfontein after attending Educate Sunday School.

The 18-year-old was stabilised on the scene before being admitted to hospital for a week.

“Due to the head injury, I suffered terrible headaches, felt dizzy, experienced back and neck pains. I could not sit for long intervals and I could not think properly. I was in a state of confusion and was not able to grasp what was happening around me,” she told Express.

“Walking by myself was difficult and I needed support. My mother was my support system during my difficult time. She helped me from one place to another, fed and bathed me.”

After three weeks off school, she felt better and it was time to prepare for her final exams. However, her study schedule changed. She could no longer study for long hours.

“Prayer and the fear of disappointing myself, my parents and educators helped me to overcome the challenges I faced during the exams.

“Because of this incident I realised I could not be limited. I could in fact achieve whatever I desired, despite the challenges I faced.The fact that I almost lost my life, but still managed to get good marks, is just amazing.

“I’ve learnt challenges are a normal part of life, and in order to become great in life, one needs to go through trials and tribulations, in that way one can be declared victorious.

“To see my friends and teachers when I returned to school was one of the best things I will never forget. My family, friends and educators gave me all the support I needed.They always shared words of courage. They strengthened me and I knew I was not going through this challenge alone,” said Mashele.

“I was relieved when I got my results. I wasn’t really surprised, because I was certain the hard work and effort I put in was going to pay off in the end. I believed in myself.

“I recall a doctor telling me I was lucky to be alive. Tears filled my eyes.”

Mashele advises learners going through a similar or difficult situation to never give up on their goals.

“Before something great can happen, a hindrance will definitely be present. Go through the challenge with the mind-set of a victor. Push yourself to do more.

“To the class of 2020, stay focused and always remember why you are in school. Avoid time wasters and focus on the main thing which is to pass your exams. This year is an extremely crucial year of your life. Make the best of it. Hard work truly pays off. All of the best.”

Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School’s principal Margaret Wrigley said she was proud and inspired by Mashele’s tenacity and success, despite her circumstances and difficulties.

“Nyeleti is a lovely girl. She came to school during pain, sat just like everyone and wrote all her exams and she still passed. She is a fighter who really worked extremely hard, despite the challenges she was going through.

“Such determination and hard work will get her far in life. I’m very proud of her,” said Wrigley.

She will be studying biological sciences at the University of Pretoria this year.