By Sonica Naudé-Steyn
The 18th annual Schools Excellence Awards took place on Friday, 30 January at the Bhongweni Youth Centre.
The event celebrates the achievements of learners, schools and teacher, recognising excellence in education. The keynote speaker was Rev Merrick Habile who spoke of the importance of making the learner the focus of education.
“Schools must be well equipped and fuelled by a vision in which the learner is the main focus. Children need more than good academic marks, the need to be involved in community development to learn empathy. The attitude of a learners is also very important,” said Rev Habile.
Greater Kokstad Mayor, L Madikizela also addressed the audience and emphasised the importance of local government involvement and monitoring of schools.
“We cannot celebrate the results if we were not part of the process. Learner transport is a very important part of education as well as ensuring learners do not come to school hungry. Infrastructure maintenance such as water and dignified sanitation is also of the utmost importance. We need to go back to basics,” said the mayor.
The top 20 matric learners for 2025 each received a medal, certificate and laptop during the awards. Top achieving schools and teachers were also recognised with certificates, medals and trophies.
- Guest speaker, Rev Merrick Habile.
