Like a shining star in the sky, Ashley Ratau the young student proved that it can be done.
The young student was showered with all praises for his achievements.
Emalahleni executive mayor Cllr Linah Malatjie said Ratau has made eMalahleni, the district and the province proud.
He obtained seven distinctions in Grade 12 last year.
She further thanked his parents, the teachers and Ms Thabsile Ranape, the sponsor, for their support.
“Education is very close to my heart and Ashley has put the school brand on the map and was challenging the class of 2019 to achieve a 100 pass mark. The municipality will always support children with good marks to enrol at university provided they have acceptance letters and they need to apply in time. Yours is to work hard, focus on your studies and you will receive the necessary support. I want to thank the teachers and parents for the role they played and wish the class of 2019 all the luck in their studies,” Cllr Malatjie said.
Mr Douglas Maja, district director said working hard and starting early will always have positive results like what Ashley did.
He urged the learners to respect their teachers and parents.
Ms Thabsile Ranape sponsored Ashley with a R10 000 cheque for his achievements.
She said she started with the sponsor a few years ago to encourage township schools’ Grade 12 learners to aim high.
She said they need to work hard and that it can be done.
Ms Ranape also challenged the class of 2019 to emulate Ashley.
Ashley got seven distinctions in Mathematic, Physical Science, Life Science, Geography, English, Computer Studies and Life Orientation.
He said he failed in Grade 8 in both the first two terms but he made a decision to change and left bad friends behind and focused on his studies.
“I decided that I have my own future and it all depends on me. I made a lot of sacrifices, I slept after school and woke at ten and studied. I set goals for myself and received a lot of support from my parents and teachers. It can be done if you set your mind on it. Start early and focus on your studies,” said Ashley.
