South Africa’s top matriculants were celebrated for their determined pursuit of excellence that resulted in them being the cream of the country’s crop. Minister Siviwe Gwarube addressed learners during the Ministerial Breakfast at the MTN Innovation Centre on 12 January 2026, celebrating the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Class of 2025 top achievers.
Reflecting on a story based in Greek mythology about a man condemned to pushing a boulder up a hill, the Minister likened this toil to the one South Africa’s brightest stars endured: “This story matters because every learner we celebrate this morning knows something about pushing a boulder uphill: the late nights, early mornings, setbacks, pressure, self-doubt, and the quiet decision, again and again, to keep going. And today, we gather not just to celebrate the summit you reached, but the pursuit of excellence that brought you here”.
She told the learners that their remarkable achievements have shown that excellence is not reserved for a privileged few, but is earned through discipline, resilience, and focus, adding that it is the beginning of a new climb: “There will be other hills. Other boulders. Other moments when progress feels slow or setbacks feel heavy. Do not be discouraged when the climb becomes steep again. Remember what you have already proven that you can persevere, that you can adapt, and that you can rise”.
A word of appreciation was shared for the support systems behind the learners and the teachers who travelled the journey with them, as well as MTN for their generous sponsorship of the event throughout the past years. To the learners, the Minister said: “South Africa needs not only your intelligence, but your character. May you carry this lesson with you: that excellence is not only found at the top of the hill, but in the climb itself. Congratulations to each and every one of you. South Africa is proud of you. The future is brighter because of you”.
During the release of the NSC results, Abigail Kok, a learner from York High School in the Western Cape Province, emerged as the Top National Achiever. Abigail plans to study at Stellenbosch University, where she has registered for Actuarial Science, with hopes of transitioning into Data Science.
From Khweha Commercial School in the Limpopo Province, Mutshidzi Audrey Ramovha, was named the Top Achiever in Accounting in Quintile 1, 2 and 3 schools. Mutshidzi aspires to study Chartered Accountancy.
From the Mpumalanga Province, Siyanda Welcome Nkuna from Inkomazi Secondary School achieved a 100% in Mathematics, earning 300 out of 300 marks and securing his place as the Top Achiever in Mathematics. He plans to study Bachelor of Accounting at the University of Johannesburg, with the goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant.
Jeppe High School for Girls proudly celebrated Nchongatakor Besong, who has been honoured with the Minister’s Awards, recognising her as a top-performing learner regardless of challenges faced.