POLOKWANE – Sofanias Negussie (17) earned two distinctions in the 2013 matric exams, making him one of the top learners at Pepps Polokwane College in his gr. 12 year.
He started his school career at the National University of Lesotho International School in Lesotho. Last year he finished his school career as one of the top three academic achievers at Pepps Polokwane Preparatory School with English, Afrikaans, mathematics, physical science, life science, information technologies (IT), mathematics paper three and advance programme English as his subjects.
Sofanias said his favourite subjects were IT and mathematics. “In IT you are taught interesting principles and you then have the freedom to create something new with those principles. I enjoyed creating little programmes in class. The finished product was my own little creation,” he said.
This promising young student plans on studying towards a B.Sc in computer science at the university, starting his first year in February, although his first boyhood dream was to become a zebra when he grew up. “I really thought it was possible,” he explained.
Sofanias did not try to balance academics, sport and extra mural activities in his gr. 12 year. “I decided early on what I wanted from my gr. 12 year and focused all my energy on that. In the first term I did not have as much work and I did take part in some extra mural activities. After that my social life died!”
When he did have the time, Sofanias played hockey, competed in Eisteddfods and hosted school events. He said he feels that sport is very important for the development of a young mind. “It is not only fun, but develops characteristics that a strictly academic approach cannot do,” he explained.
Sofanias said his family is his support system. “My mom stayed up and stressed more than I did. My family was always willing to do what they thought I needed to do better.
“My friends were a group of people with whom you could discuss your problems and anxieties. Extra lessons also provided added academic support.”
Life is not all about achievements for Sofanias. “I was involved in the various annual community service initiatives we had at our school.
“I was involved with the tutoring program we ran at Doasho High School too. Here I learned how your circumstances are largely beyond your control and so you should use whatever resources you do have.
“Maximise on the things that you can control.”
In five years he sees himself completing his master’s degree in natural computation at an esteemed international university.
