As the new academic year got underway at Hoërskool Jan Viljoen High School, a new chapter of leadership began with the announcement of the 2026 Representative Council of Learners (RCL) Executive Group.

The group serves as leaders of their peers and representatives of the school community.

The 2026 RCL Executive Group is:

• Head boy: Luthando Mpanjukelwa
• Deputy head: Helena Benecke
• Secretary: Thato Morai
• Vice-secretary: Sakhile Mhlongo
• Treasurer: Janelize van Tonder
• Public relations officer: Ruaan Lombard

The team is responsible for organising learner initiatives, coordinating school programmes and acting as a link between learners and management. They aim to promote unity, uphold the school’s values and ensure all learners feel represented.

The group has already launched initiatives to build school spirit, including an interhouse event and the introduction of daily morning prayers.

Sakhile Mhlongo said, “We started the year with our interhouse event, which was a huge success. We also pushed for morning prayers every school day, not only during assemblies, as we believe it sets a positive tone.”

Deputy principal and RCL head Bianca van der Schyff praised the group’s efforts.

“This RCL team is making strides to create a positive learning environment and leave a lasting impact on future leadership groups,” she said.

Head boy Luthando Mpanjukelwa said their role is to be a voice for learners and create a platform for ideas that improve the school environment.

Members acknowledged the challenge of balancing academic and extracurricular responsibilities, emphasising teamwork and accountability.

Ruaan Lombard said, “Being selected as RCL members means we must hold each other accountable and ensure study sessions take place.”

Secretary Thato Morai shared her experience balancing leadership duties with her involvement in the school hip hop crew, J Squad, which recently won first place at the Gouefees festival.

Helena Benecke highlighted the importance of faith. “We may feel mentally and physically exhausted at times, but we rely on prayer and faith to guide us,” she said.

Janelize van Tonder added that teacher support has been valuable. “Teachers have introduced a ninth period to help matrics prepare for exams, which has been a great support,” she said.

When faced with challenges, the group relies on open communication and compromise to make decisions in the best interests of learners.

The 2026 RCL enters the year committed to strengthening school spirit and serving its peers.