Phathutshedzo Siavhe, an 18-year-old learner from Elim High School, has demonstrated that dedication and hard work can lead to extraordinary success by obtaining seven distinctions in his Grade 12 final examinations.
The distinctions achieved by the young man from Elim Mabobo are in mathematics, physics, life sciences, geography, English, Xitsonga, and life orientation.
Elim High School achieved an overall pass rate of 81.58%, with 79 bachelor's passes, while Rivoni School for the Blind attained a 100% pass rate, with three bachelor's passes.
Phathutshedzo credits most of his teachers and mentors for playing a crucial role in his academic success. He found mathematics easier than many of his other subjects, scoring an astounding 100%. Despite facing some challenges with geography, life orientation, and English, he overcame them by connecting with fellow learners who excelled in those subjects. Setting high academic goals and working hard to achieve them were crucial for his success, along with the support of his parents.
He explained how he maintained a balance between academic studies and personal well-being throughout his Grade 12 year. "Sacrificing some leisure activities, like playing the guitar and attending church, was necessary. I had to focus on my studies over weekends to achieve good grades," he said.
Phathutshedzo plans on studying computer science, health science, or medicine and is pleased to have been accepted at higher institutions such as the University of the Witwatersrand and the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
The deputy principal of Elim High School, Mr. Oscar Ramaru, congratulated Phathutshedzo on his outstanding achievement, stating, "We are grateful that he has put our school on the map. It will also motivate this year's Grade 12 learners to work hard."
Remember Mogale (21), a learner at Rivoni School for the Blind, secured the third position in the public special school category with one distinction in economics. "I am happy about my achievement and appreciate the dedicated teachers' support," he said.
Remember, who is from Kgapane in Tzaneen, plans on studying social work at the University of Limpopo.