Foundation hosts annual matric awards in Thembisa

The B&M Mkhize Foundation and HAI hosted the seventh annual Thembisa Matric Awards on January 25, celebrating the top achievers of the Class of 2024.

The event recognised outstanding learners, educators, school leaders and the highest-performing schools in the Thembisa precinct.

Twenty-one top achievers were honoured, with the top matriculant and the runner-up receiving laptops to help with their tertiary studies.

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In addition, the top achiever was awarded R5 000 from Masinga Embroiders and Print Works, with Tembisa Local Taxi Association chairperson Mr Moholala contributing R10 000.

Bethary Private School was recognised as the top-performing private school, while Thembisa West Secondary School took first place in the public school category, ending Jiyane Secondary School’s two-year streak as the top-ranked institution in 2022 and 2023.

Kamva Mpunta (18) from Ingqayizivele Secondary School was named Thembisa’s top matriculant, with an average of 92.42%.

She was excited to represent her community through education.

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“I always believed I would do well in matric but never expected to be Thembisa’s top achiever.

“I actually found out before receiving my results because I was also recognised at the provincial awards ceremony.

“This has been a blessing for me and my family,” said Mpunta.

She also offered words of encouragement to the Class of 2025.

“There is no shortcut to success. It takes hard work and dedication. Giving yourself time to read and truly understand your subjects is what makes the difference,” she said.

Foundation founder Bukhosi Mkhize was thankful for the growth of the awards over the past seven years.

“We have worked tirelessly to ensure our learners receive the recognition they deserve. Hard work should always be acknowledged, and that is what we strive for. Their dedication has brought us all together today to celebrate their success,” said Mkhize.

He also acknowledged the generosity of key figures who volunteered their time and resources to officiate the event, “When you do good for the community, the rewards will always follow.”

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Representatives from the Ekurhuleni district, sponsors, school leaders, parents and teachers attended the event.

Special recognition went to learners who achieved over 100% in specific subjects, with individual awards handed out to celebrate their excellence.

The selection of the top 10 achievers was done in consultation with the Department of Education to ensure accuracy in rankings and results.

Mpunta, who will study for an engineering degree at the University of Cape Town, was wished well on her academic journey, along with all the matriculants who excelled in 2024.