Proud parents and community members filled the hall as the ‘Class of 2025’ was honoured at the Matric Excellence Awards held on Friday at the Cecil Emmet Hall.

Celebration of academic excellence

The ceremony brought together AbaQulusi Local Municipality officials, school principals, educators and pastors to recognise the top 10 performing learners from schools within the municipality. The event celebrated resilience, academic excellence and the collective effort behind the learners’ success.

Gratitude for learners and parents

Municipal Manager Sbonga Dlamini said the purpose of the gathering was to give thanks to God for guiding both learners and educators throughout their high school journey. He emphasised the importance of celebrating not only the learners, but also their parents.

“We are grateful that God has been with our children during their schooling years. We celebrate their achievements and ask for continued protection as they move forward. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and parents also deserve recognition for the role they have played.”

Outstanding school performance

Fifteen schools in AbaQulusi Local Municipality achieved a 100% matric pass rate.

Several educators were also recognised for producing 100% results in Mathematics and Physical Science. Speaking on behalf of the awarded educators, Mr Nkosi described the achievements as a collective effort, starting from primary school through to high school.

“Education must be strengthened at all levels. This success reflects teamwork, and we are hopeful for even better results in 2026.’’

Circuit maintains top district ranking

Representing the Department of Education, Ms Ntanzi announced that the Bhekuzulu Circuit Management Cluster achieved an overall pass rate of 93.2%. She added that the circuit ranked first in the Zululand District for the third year in a row.

“No irregularities were reported during the matric examinations. As the Department of Education, we remain committed to supporting our learners and working closely with the municipality and the community.’’ She then thanked AbaQulusi Local Municipality for prioritising learners and educators through such initiatives.

Mayor applauds collective effort

AbaQulusi Local Municipality Mayor Sifiso Mkhwanazi quoted Ephesians 6:1, encouraging learners to honour and obey their parents. He emphasised the importance of parents being involved in the teaching and learning process, and expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the strong matric results.

Awards and financial support presented

The mayor presented laptops, certificates and trophies to top-performing schools. Financial assistance of R5000 was awarded to 60 tertiary-level students who are historical debtors, while an additional 20 students received R5000 each to assist with tertiary registration for the current year.

The top 10 learners also received vouchers, certificates, free driving lessons, suitcases and many other gifts. Educators who achieved a 100% pass rate were awarded vouchers, trophies and certificates.

Prayer session closes programme

The programme also had a prayer session, with prayers focusing on free, fair and safe local government elections; job creation; investment; and the fight against crime, drugs, violence and corruption.

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.