“Simply the Best” – a phrase fondly used by the late former MEC of education in the Free State, Tate Makgoe, when referring to the province’s top matriculants after they receive the title of being the best-performing province in the country.
It was a joyous celebration in Bloemfontein as the department celebrated another milestone of excellence in education for remaining the top performing province for a sixth consecutive time in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.
The province obtained an 89% pass rate, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 86% and Gauteng took third position at 85.4%. The country’s overall pass rate is 82.9% – the highest since the inception of NSC in 2008.
During a well-done function that took place at the Central University of Technology’s Boet Troakie hall, the top 100 matriculants were celebrated by the MEC for Education, Makalo Mohale, Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, teachers, principals, family members and officials from the department of education.
In his keynote address, MEC Mohale expressed his excitement by quoting his late predecessor saying that the class of 2023 is “Simply the best”. He honoured him by saying that he played a pivotal role in establishing the eco-system that the province is experiencing today.
“The 2023 cohort has achieved more bachelor passes and distinctions than ever before. Quality education is essential for economic advancement when it is delivered by quality teachers,” he said.
Mohale articulated how the class of 2023 demonstrated resilience, strength of character and tenacity to overcome all odds of bedevilling their prospect for scholastic success.
To celebrate the matriculants, the top 100 learners were showered with praise and were spoilt with cash incentives and gifts from various sponsors and stakeholders.
Kamohelo Mosikili, who came in first position in the whole province and the only candidate to represent the Free State nationally, said he is very excited and is looking forward to what the future has for him. He attended Selelekela Senior Secondary school in Qwaqwa and received seven distinctions including 100% in both Maths and Physical Science.
“It is because of discipline, hard work and perseverance that I have managed to get these marks. I did not have time for friends and fun. My school work was my priority and I intend to keep it that way when I get to university level,” he said.
He is going to study Computer Sciences at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
Cara Stevens from Eunice High School in Bloemfontein obtained eight distinctions. She says she is very proud of herself for all her achievements and that she will be studying Mechatronics Engineering at Stellenbosch University this year.
Another learner, Katleho Molete from Moteka Secondary School in Qwaqwa says he is overwhelmed by the love and support from his teachers and his family. He wants to study Mechanical Engineering and has received offers from University of Witwatersrand and UCT.
Karabelo Moloi from Letsema Secondary School, also in Qwaqwa, obtained six distinctions by using different techniques for different subjects. She says she will be studying Occupational Therapy at UCT.
The province is dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and to reach its full potential, district department officials, top principals and top schools were also awarded with incentives and gifts as a manner of empowerment.
The top performing district in the province is Motheo District which includes schools in Bloemfontein, Thaba Nchu and Botshabelo. The top Maths and Physical Science school in the province is Eunice High School.
The top Maths, Science, Accounting and History teachers were awarded with trophies and certificates during the celebrations.
