Afrika Tikkun celebrated academic excellence at the Ignite Top Achievers Awards 2026.02.03

The event, held on January 31 at the Houghton Hotel, honoured outstanding matriculants from the Class of 2025 who excelled through its after-school Ignite programme.

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The ceremony recognised learners who demonstrated discipline, resilience, and exceptional academic performance, many of whom overcame significant personal and social challenges on their path to success.

Speaking at the event, Afrika Tikkun head of operations Manny Mhlanga said the awards were about celebrating what young people can achieve when given the right support. “Today is not about challenges or limitations; it is about celebrating excellence, resilience, and achievement among our young people.”

The Ignite programme recorded a 94% matric pass rate, up from 90% the previous year, with 61% of learners achieving Bachelor’s Degree passes, outperforming the national average. A total of 443 distinctions were earned across 1 061 learners, nearly doubling the number achieved in 2024.

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Among the top achievers were Ndifelani Makananuse and Xabiso Sibuta, who each earned seven distinctions and will study computer science at Wits University, while Anele Nosasa, Somila Ncapayi, and Amandla Yotho each achieved five distinctions and are heading to institutions including University of Cape Town, North-West University, and Wits.

The awards, hosted in partnership with corporate sponsors such as TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa, form part of Afrika Tikkun’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills and confidence needed to succeed beyond the classroom.

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