PEPPS learner Boitumelo receives Dux learner award
Boitumelo says learning in an era with social media is hard, as she had to sacrifice on screen time and focus on her studies.
POLOKWANE – For Boitumelo Matjena, having been named the Dux learner at PEPPS College, is one of her biggest blessings.
The 18-year-old Gr 12 learner attributes this honour to setting goals and working hard.
She was also awarded for best performance in accounting, life science, mathematics, physical science and the top academic achiever in Gr 12.
Review spoke to her about her success recipe.
“One of the most important things I discovered is that each subject has a different study style. This has helped me maximise and understand the difficulties of my subjects,” she said.
She said she surrounds herself with academically driven learners who extend their knowledge beyond just what the curriculum entails.
“To get through the exams, I pray a lot and acquire the mental and physical strength from God. I have also learnt to believe in myself and in doing so, I know that with every exam and challenge, I can overcome and think outside the box.”
She added that she has made a lot of sacrifices and it hasn’t been an easy road.
Watching her peers have fun and going out while she chose to study and focus on school, was one of the most difficult things she has had to do and it required immense dedication.
“One of the biggest sacrifices was minimising my social life and maximising my academic life. Learning in an era with social media is also hard, most of the time I have had to sacrifice screen time and focus on my studies. Some days I switched off my phone and aimed to do better academically. These sacrifices have really paid off because they have paved the road ahead for me.”
Her favourite subject is physical science and although it is a strenuous subject, her teacher Banji Fadipe has been of great assistance and guidance throughout the journey, she said.
“His immense Saturday sacrifices led me to loving and understanding the basic principles of the subject. I have learnt that pushing through the struggles is beneficial to you as a learner,” she said.
In her downtime, she enjoys watching Netflix and investigation documentaries, and sometimes sharing TikToks with her friends. She also likes spending time with family who she says keep her joyful and content during difficult times showing her love and appreciation.
Matjena’s advice for obtaining good marks is to avoid procrastination at all cost.
“Procrastination is not your friend, but your enemy. Putting work off only results in you doing more the next day. In order to maximise your studies, you must be dedicated and willing to work hard,” she concluded.
