95% in maths for the top learner at Ferndale High School

Ferndale High School top learner Joseph Kanyemba achieved beyond his expectations after bagging eight distinctions including 95% in mathematics.

Kanyemba said it felt surreal and he could not believe what he had achieved. “I feel a lot of things, but I am grateful.”

He added he had put in a lot of hard work. “There were many sleepless nights, stress, and juggling all the responsibilities. Grade 12 is hard. Applying for universities and everything as well is hard. This is a lot of hard work, but I couldn’t have done it without all the people around me.

“I’ve always been a top student but there was something about these exams. When I finished writing, it felt like I wouldn’t do well somehow, but I am glad that I bounced back.”

Kanyemba added he was ready to study medicine. “I am looking at Wits for now, but I also have a few other options out of state and overseas as well, so I am very happy.”

He advised the class of 2023 matric to balance work and fun. “They should enjoy their last year because it is the last year being with like-minded people and working towards the same goal. At the same time, maintain discipline and do work when you are supposed to. Working two nights before the exam does not work and I’ve seen people do it and today they do not look so happy. So, work when you’re supposed to and have fun overall.”

He expressed his gratitude to God and everyone around him. “There is no way I did all this by myself. I am thankful to my peers around me, my teachers, and my parents. At the shops, I’ll come across people asking me if I am coping and how I am doing and that helped a lot because there is a lot of pressure and sometimes you just need someone to ask you how you are doing, and it helps a lot.”

Ferndale High School principal Bahiya Manuel said,” Joseph developed a quit competitive disposition from the moment he joined Ferndale which ensured that he maintained the top position year on year since 2018.”

Manuel added that saying goodbye to such an exemplary and driven learner or aptly now young man to realise his dreams and aspirations can only leave us looking on with pride.

The principal wishes Kanyemba well and knows he will be successful in his studies.

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