Rivoni learner is one of 2020's top matric achievers

Ngobeni Nompumelelo, a 2020 matric learner from the Rivoni School for the Blind near Elim, secured herself a spot among the top 2020 achievers in the province.

In order to be recognised as a top candidate in this category (Public Special School), a learner must obtain a minimum combined total of 900 marks in six subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Ngobeni had 1 354 marks.

Ngobeni also received a special merit award from the MEC for Education, Ms Polly Boshielo, during the announcement of the 2020 matric results. “I have decided to recognize four top candidates from quintile 1, 2, 3 and Special Schools who have prevailed against all material learning conditions,” the MEC said.

“I was so excited to make my parents and teachers proud amid the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Ngobeni after the matric results were announced on 23 February.

Asked how she managed to score such high marks, Ngobeni said: “I got support from my teachers and my parents, as well as God guiding us. I really studied very hard with the little resources we had.”

But this is only the start for this bright student, who plans on studying Psychology. Ngobeni’s advice to the 2021 matric learners is to focus as much as possible on reading.

In the matric class of 2019 another learner from the Rivoni School for the Blind also excelled. Tiyane Mbendzani was among the top 30 best performers in the province, proving that the learners with disabilities are able to perform exceptionally well.

Ms Connie Mabaso, principal of the school, thanked the educators for their cooperation. She also thanked the school’s governing body and parents for their influence and support which contributed to the good results achieved.

News - Date: 25 February 2021

Bernard Chiguvare

Bernard Chiguvare is a Zimbabwean-born journalist. He writes mainly for the online publication, Groundup.

Email: [email protected]