Hanyani Secondary School in Tshipise Sagole, located in the rural Niani area, has transformed from one of the country's struggling schools into a record-breaking success story.
In 2023, the school recorded a modest 57% matric pass rate. This year, however, they made an extraordinary leap to 92.1% - a 35.1 % improvement that has brought the entire community to celebrate.
The school's transformation was made possible through the combined efforts of the school management, teachers, and the University of Johannesburg (UJ)'s UJ for Societal Impact project. This initiative, active since 2014, brings life-changing solutions to remote villages by addressing challenges in education, energy, water, and connectivity.
In 2023, UJ partnered with the South African Jewish Board of Deputies to establish the Tshumisano Learning Centre at Hanyani Secondary School. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with computers, books, solar-powered lights, and satellite internet access. Led by UJ's Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE), the centre has revolutionised how learners and teachers engage with education.
The results speak for themselves. Hanyani Secondary School achieved a 100% pass rate in science and an 84.6% pass rate in mathematics - successes that seemed impossible just a year ago. Principal Thifhelimbilu Ndou, filled with pride, said: "We have achieved what we never thought possible. This is one of the best performances in the school's history. I thank UJ and my hardworking teachers for making this victory a reality."
The school, which serves nearly 500 learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, had previously struggled with high dropout rates and a lack of motivation. Many students came from child-headed households, where dreams of a brighter future seemed out of reach.
Now, the Tshumisano Learning Centre has reignited hope. Learners can study at night using solar-powered lights, research online, and apply to universities. Teachers have also benefited, using computers to enhance their teaching skills and further their own studies.
UJ's commitment extended beyond just providing facilities. Various faculties contributed to the school's success.
"This transformation shows what collaboration and determination can achieve," said Professor Mashao, Executive Dean of FEBE. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Khan added: "We are proud to see the power of education change lives. This success inspires us to ensure that no learner is left behind, no matter their circumstances."
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi summed up the triumph: "Projects like UJ for Societal Impact prove that we can create lasting change in even the most remote communities. Hanyani Secondary School is now a beacon of hope, and we celebrate this victory with everyone involved."