Two former learners from Phulong High School in Kwa-Thema received awards for the top achievers in African languages.
Naledi Mapheto and Iviwe Makgolo, who were part of the class of 2025, were awarded at the Department of Education Gauteng East district awards, held on February 12 at Stable Inn in Springs.
Mapheto, who received an award as a top achiever in the Sepedi home language, told the African Reporter that she was excited to learn she was receiving it.
She said that she told her teacher at the beginning of 2025 that she and her teacher would be taking the awards home. Her teacher, Mmaphoko Jeanette Kau, received the top teacher in the Sepedi award in the district.
Mapheto also credited her teacher, who was a guiding hand in her achievement and helped when she struggled.
Marcus Naidoo with Iviwe Makgolo receiving her awards from Raymond Moodley. Photo: Zamokuhle Ndawonde
“I was inspired by a former learner in the class of 2023 who also got the same award, and I told myself that it would be me soon. I focused on this subject because I was already excelling in it, so I decided to give it my best,” said Mapheto.
She advised this year’s class to ask their teachers for help, work in groups, and use YouTube as a learning resource.
Makgolo took home the top achiever in the IsiZulu home language, and she said she was surprised to be the highest in the district, as the subject was not her favourite.
Despite all, she said getting the award means a lot because she dedicated her time to passing matric with outstanding marks.
The district director Somikazi Chabalala speaking at the awards. Photo: Zamokuhle Ndawonde
“My teacher motivated us as a class to succeed in the subject because we had morning and afternoon classes, so I am happy that I was able to make him proud,” said Makgolo.
During the ceremony, the district director, Somikazi Chabalala, said that the district has faced difficulties over the years, but the learners have still been able to thrive.
She also said that, as a district, they are extremely proud of the learners’ and schools’ success.
“To the class of 2025, you have written not just examinations but a statement that the future won’t be declared by instabilities and have proved that excellence is not about comfort, but it is about courage.”
She concluded by thanking the teachers, tutors, and principals for providing support to learners through extra classes and for sacrificing their time to help learners on their journey to success.
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