Johannesburg– When Kukhokuhle Tsengwa, 17, from St Johns College, in Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape, prepared for his final matric examinations, he only aimed to be a top achiever in his province. Little did he know that he would be counted amongst the country’s top achievers of the matric class of 2015.
“I only aimed to be one of the provincial top achievers. I did not think I will receive any national award. I feel really proud,” said Tsengwa, who stays in Willowvale, near Mthatha.
He was speaking in Midrand, in Johannesburg, during the announcement of the 2015 National Senior Certificate (NSC) Examination Results by Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, on Tuesday.
Being counted amongst the country’s 20 top achievers of the class of 2015, all it took for Tsengwa was belief and work hard. “I had to believe I can do it, and I had to work hard to realise my dream,” he said.
Tsengwa said he felt extremely proud of himself when he received the news from his school principal on Saturday.
“My parents were overwhelmed. It was just unbelievable.”
He will be starting a new journey to a bright future this year, as he will be studying Mechatronics at the University of Cape Town.
Starting preparations early
He advised the class of 2016 to start early in January if they are aiming for the stars.
“You start from day one to prepare for your examinations. You do not wait until the last term. Eat healthy, exercise, get enough rest and dedicate your time to your school work.
“To my fellow mates from class 2015 who did not make it, it is not the end of the world. There are always second opportunities. Use opportunities like supplementary examinations and others to succeed,” he said.
Tsengwa came second place in category Top Physical Science Achievers and second place in category Top Mathematics and Physical Science Achievers.
He said he is proud of his achievements, but words alone are not enough to thank his mother for all she has done for him. He beamed that he was grateful and appreciative of her support.
