Emshukantambo learners inspired to excel as exams begin
Learners began their exams in high spirits after being celebrated for their hard work and achievements during a special validation ceremony.
Learners from Emshukantambo Secondary School kicked off their six-week exam period in high spirits following their validation ceremony at the Grace Bible Church, Zone 1, Pimville, on October 17.
The event aimed to motivate and celebrate the top performers and the most improved learners on their third-term results.
Principal Richard Masemola said the school is targeting a 100% pass rate, and the journey to achieving that began at the start of the year.
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“After every term, we analyse our results, identify our top 10 learners and celebrate them. It keeps alive the spirit of competition,” he explained.
According to Masemola, this consistent recognition helps learners stay motivated and focused on improving their performance and has shown positive results.
“We are sitting at an 85% pass rate after the third term, which gives us a strong entry into the final exams,” he said.
The school is focusing on learners at risk of failing through what he described as a “last-push” study camp, where pupils are housed at the school for intensive revision and support.
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School Governing Body (SGB) chairperson Ntsie Mohlaoai said he was proud of the learners’ achievements and their dedication throughout the year.
“We saw how the learners received their awards and the excitement and pride. It shows that their hard work is paying off,” he said.
Mohlaoai added that while the school had initially set a target of 95%, they believe reaching 100% is possible.
“There’s nothing impossible if we put our minds to it,” he noted.
He explained that the SGB works with the school’s management to ensure learners have the necessary support and learning materials.
Chairperson and founder of the Nhlanhla Tshabalala Foundation, Nhlanhla Tshabalala, said the learners had the foundation’s full support as they prepare for their final exams.
Tshabalala described the national matric pledge ceremony as powerful and inspiring, adding that it was beautiful to see learners commit themselves to excellence.
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As part of their contribution, the foundation pledged R300 to the overall top performer to help with their stay during the upcoming study camp.
Another donor, Zoe Ngubeni from African Temptations, encouraged learners to apply what they had learnt throughout the year.
“It does not end here; this is just a launching pad for their next life. They will find out what life has in store for them in their next chapter.”
Mandla Nguza, representing a security company, commended the learners for their hard work and commitment.
He said his R5 000 contribution was to support the school’s initiatives and motivate learners to stay focused on their goals.
He added that his company plans to help interested learners with basic security training and work experience opportunities to help them prepare for careers in fields such as security services or the Navy.
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Local entrepreneurs Troy Zwane and Sandile Mazibuko from Pimville sponsored free haircuts, vouchers and new shoes for one of the top-performing male learners.
Zwane said they wanted to ensure everyone looked sharp and confident for the event.
The top 10 overall performers:
• Mandlate Daniel: 81%;
• Maseko Ntombifuthi: 80%;
• Ndlovu Sinesipho: 79%;
• Maber Siyabonga: 76%;
• Mavuso Unathi: 75%;
• Mavundla Khanyisile, Ngcobo Siyabonga and Gogela Ntombikayise: 73%;
• Mthoba Ntsikelelo and Ndlela Nqobile: 72%;
• Pangwana Junior: 71%;
• Sesing Karabo, Sibiya Nothando, Molefe Itumeleng, Mazibuko Sphiwe and Chapi Aphelele: 70%;
• Maphala Neo, Nobela Hope, Ndima Katlego and Mporo Karabo: 69%.
