It was a proud moment for the Class of 2025 when the City of Mbombela (CoM) recognised their hard work. The annual Top Learner Awards Ceremony was held at Mbombela Stadium on Thursday, January 29, honouring the outstanding matric results from the 15 circuits within the CoM’s jurisdiction in the Ehlanzeni District of the Department of Education.

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The 64 top learners each received a laptop, certificate, and medal for their achievements. In an emotional tribute to the late chief whip of council, Cllr Meshack ‘Tailor’ Nsimbini, who pioneered the awards eight years ago, CoM mayor Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko could not hold back her tears.

She shared the journey of how the award ceremony started and said its aim was to make a lasting impact.

She congratulated the Class of 2025 and reminded them not to let their backgrounds define who they are.

“Challenge the status quo and make your parents and communities proud as you pursue your studies in institutions of higher learning,” she said.

Notsikelelelo Njabulo Mathebula, a learner from Inkunzi Secondary School, said she is happy to be her school’s top learner and will be studying law at the University of the Free State.

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Another top learner, Milanda Chikomo of Ngodini High School, said she achieved four distinctions.

“I am happy to receive the prizes I got today. I want to be an auditor and will focus on accounting,” she said.

Cindy Zwane, who attended the event to support her daughter, Gladness Thobela, said she was thrilled to see her child among the learners recognised for their hard work. She added that she appreciates what the municipality is doing, as it encourages learners to strive for excellence.