Nqweba Secondary rewards achievers

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The principle of 'Masizakhe', that people must build themselves, took centre stage at the recent prize-giving ceremony for Nqweba Secondary School, held at the uMasizakhe community hall. In his welcome speech, principal Zanovuyo Mdingi said the school has a big responsibility, especially the teachers, who have the light to see that education can make a huge difference in a child's life.

He said the school's academic progress has been stellar, from 52%, to 83%, to 87%, and they want to continue to excel.

"We can't excel without the children, especially the Grade 12s' NSC matric results, meaning this year we are supposed to be beyond 95%. We can only get beyond 95% if the parents and teachers can come together and work hard to reach that goal," Mdingi said.
Learners who excelled academically, culturally or on the sport field were acknowledged for their hard work with top achiever certificates.
Mdingi said they want the school to be an enjoyable place where children can develop their God-given talents and said that special care must be taken to identify and assist those kids who get lost in the system. He also encouraged parents to support their children in their school careers.
The guest speaker was Zolani May, a former learner of Nqweba Secondary, who has become a prominent businessman. It was May who pointed out the meaning of 'Masizakhe' and urged the learners to follow this principle. He told them a bit of their school's history, starting out as the only 'Bantu' secondary school in the Karoo area and producing prominent leaders, politicians, pharmacists and education leaders. He also awarding the principal and the school governing body with trophies.
Learner's achievements
Most improved learner: Grade 12 - Yakhanani Sangotsha, Grade 8 - Shanice George, Grade 9 - Ayola Gwenteshe, Grade 10 - Hope Asho, Grade 11 - Lee-Roy Melani
Top performer: General Education and Training phase: Ayola Gwenteshe
Top performer in Grade 12: Further Education and Training: Lathitha Lumkwana.
Overall top achieving awards: Lumkwana Lathitha and Gwenteshe Ayola
Special certificates were also awarded for music, sports and culture, including awards for sportsperson of the year in athletics, ruby, netball and soccer.
A token of appreciation was bestowed on Mongamo Jantjies for his dedicated support and financial contribution to the school.

Grade 9 learner Ayola Gwenteshe was the top performer in her grade as well as the overall top performer.