Mnyakanya School in Nkandla achieves highest matric results ever

There was much joy at Mnyakanya School in Nkandla as the matric class of 2021 achieved the best Grade 12 exam results in the school’s history.

The school has been partnered with St Mary’s Menston School in the UK through the Bambisanani Partnership since 2006.

ALSO READ: WATCH: One-on-one with SA and African heavyweight boxing champ

Myakanya obtained a 72% matric pass rate the previous year, and last year improved to a remarkable 86%.

Out of 97 students, 40 obtained a bachelor’s pass, 28 a diploma pass, while 13 acquired higher certificates.

Bambisanani Partnership co-ordinator at Mnyakanaya, PK Zondi reported great excitement when the results were announced, with community members rushing to the school to join in the celebrations.

Many officials from the municipality and Department of Education have subsequently visited the school to pass on their congratulations.

‘We would not be in this position without the support of the Bambisanani Partnership, and in particular St Mary’s School, Leeds Trinity University and the University of Leeds.

‘The partnership has been with us at our most challenging times. The growing success of the school has led to a 40% increase in students wishing to attend this despite having to walk long distances to do so. ‘We would like to thank all those who have contributed to creating a better future for our young people,’ she said.

School governing body chairperson, Mrs. Nzuzu said, ‘We are overwhelmed with the results. This is a great achievement and progress when you look at the challenges of recent years.’

David Geldart from the Bambisanani Partnership added: ‘I simply cannot praise the educators and learners at

Mnyakanya enough; in every sense, they continue to go the extra mile. Their determination to succeed is genuinely inspirational.

‘As a partnership, our charity now works with primary schools, secondary schools, colleges, and universities in both the UK and South Africa.

‘Our work is about helping young people in both countries achieve their potential. Mnyakanya School provides an oasis of hope for young people; all those involved in our partnership will gain strength from these remarkable and thoroughly deserved results which have been achieved with limited material resources.

‘Despite the challenges, we sincerely hope that as many students as possible will be able to continue their education. The partnership will continue to work with the school and others to provide bursaries for further and higher education where possible.

‘My thanks must go to the principal Siyabonga Ngubane and Mrs PK Zondi for their vision and commitment to both their young people and the partnership; their leadership is changing the lives of so many young people through the power of education, sport, and partnership. ‘Massive congratulations to all at Mnyakanya.’