Thohoyandou pupil tops Lim Class of 2025 with 7 distinctions
17-year-old Maduvha Munyai earned seven distinctions and plans to study actuarial science, as Limpopo's matric pass rate rose to 86.15%.
LIMPOPO – The 17-year-old Maduvha Steven Munyai from Thohoyandou Secondary School has emerged as Limpopo’s top learner in the 2025 National Senior Certificate Examinations, Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule Ramakhanya announced during a ceremony held at The Ranch Resort outside Polokwane on January 13.
The keys to success
Munyai obtained seven distinctions: in mathematics, physical science, life science, geography, Tshivenda, life orientation and English First Additional Language. He attributed his success to time management, discipline, hard work and the grace of God.
He said the support of his teachers and parents played a crucial role in his achievement.
“It was not that easy. Success only comes after hard work,” he said.
He encouraged learners who did not perform as well to remain motivated. “Your knock-down is not your knockout,” he said, urging learners to prioritise studying over social activities and limit time spent on non-educational television programmes.
Munyai plans to study actuarial sciences at either the University of Cape Town or Wits. He said several companies had offered to sponsor his studies, and he would soon make a decision.
Province-wide improvement in results
The MEC said Limpopo’s matric pass rate had increased by just over 1%, reaching 86.15% compared to 85.1% the previous year. She acknowledged, however, that some schools had underperformed.
“Last year we worked very hard to improve our matric results. We organised intensive camp classes and partnered with SABC radio and community radio stations to support Gr 12 learners with revision,” she said.
She thanked parents and guardians for their support and praised teachers for their dedication. “Teachers in this province committed themselves in ways that should be an example to the rest of the profession, and we truly appreciate their selfless contribution,” she said.
The Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba also congratulated the matriculants and teachers, wishing learners success as they begin their studies at universities and colleges. “Your achievement signifies our commitment to advancing the values of education that are central to our liberation as individuals and as a nation,” she said.
