Simesihle Khuzwayo, a matriculant from Nongoma, recently had the honour of meeting Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube after being invited among the top 40 National Senior Certificate (NSC) achievers for 2025.

Strong roots in Nongoma

Khuzwayo, who hails from Ward 14 in the Nongoma area under the Zululand District, completed her schooling at King Bhekuzulu High School.

Dedication and support behind her success

Reflecting on her achievement in various interviews shared online, Khuzwayo said her success was the result of dedication and strong support from both home and school. She emphasised that hard work truly pays off, and gave credit to all her educators for their constant guidance and support.

“I am very thankful for the support I received at home and at school. If you ask me how I obtained these results, I honestly don’t know,” she said with a smile. “I just knew I had to put more hours into my studies and work closely with my teachers.”

Never afraid to ask for help

Khuzwayo explained that she actively looked out for help whenever she struggled, often requesting past question papers and contacting her teachers at all hours so they would clarify some difficult questions she encountered while studying.

“I bothered my teachers a lot, but I am grateful that they were always willing to help. I learnt that one should never be afraid to ask questions or build relationships with educators, as it makes learning much easier,” she said.

Message of encouragement to current learners

She encourages the current Grade 12 learners to remain focused and motivated, reminding them that their efforts are an investment in their futures.

“You are studying to change your life and your home circumstances. You are not studying for your friends or family, but for yourself,” she added.

Aspirations in medicine and science

Looking ahead, Khuzwayo aspires to study medicine and become a chemical scientist, driven by her passion for helping and caring for people, as well as conducting research.

Twin sister reflects on challenges and perseverance

Her twin sister, who also completed matric last year, expressed pride in Khuzwayo’s achievement, saying the journey was not without challenges.

“I am extremely proud of Simesihle. I sometimes pressured her because I knew she could achieve nationally. She faced health challenges and was hospitalised at times, but each time she returned to school, she worked even harder and continued to excel,” she said.

School and municipality celebrate achievement

The principal, educators and learners at King Bhekuzulu High School congratulated Khuzwayo and the entire Class of 2025 after the school recorded an impressive 98.8% pass rate.

Nongoma Local Municipality, led by Councillor Zondo, also extended its congratulations to Khuzwayo and wished her well in her future endeavours.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.