Sibusisiwe Comprehensive Technical School High in Umbumbulu has once again proven that excellence knows no boundaries. The school proudly etched its name into history by achieving a 100% matric pass rate for three consecutive years (2023,2024, 2025), a remarkable milestone that has positioned it as one of the top feeder schools to the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
In recognition of this outstanding achievement, on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, the Student Recruitment unit at DUT paid a special visit to the school to celebrate alongside learners, educators, parents, and the broader community.
Sibusisiwe teachers and learners excited to celebrate with DUT.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement, smiles, and an overwhelming sense of pride as success was celebrated not just as a result, but as a collective success.
One of the most touching moments of the day was when the 2026 matric class formed a guard of honour for the outgoing Class of 2025, symbolising respect, gratitude, and inspiration. It was a powerful reminder that excellence at Sibusisiwe is a culture passed from one generation to the next.
Out of 267 learners, five (5) achieved 100% with eight distinctions, six (6) obtained seven distinctions and 236 achieved Bachelor’s passes while nine (9) earned diploma passes.
School principal, Mr Emmanuel Duma congratulated learners, teachers, and parents for working hand in hand to maintain the school’s impressive record.
“I urge everyone to continue supporting and protecting this school. It is a beacon of hope for future generations. Credit must go to our hardworking teachers and supportive parents, this achievement belongs to all of us,” he said.
The celebration was further honoured by the presence of the former Deputy Minister of Health and former MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Sibongiseni Dhlomo who applauded the school’s leadership and learners for their success.
“Excellence has become the norm here. Other schools are learning from your example. What you are doing is opening doors not only for your learners, but for many others,” he remarked.
DUT’s Mr Michael Zulu speaking at Sibusisiwe Comprehensive Technical High School in Umbumbulu.
Representing DUT, Mr Michael Zulu from the Student Recruitment unit explained that celebrating with Sibusisiwe High aligned with the university’s mission to attract top performing students. He also highlighted that they have been working closely with lot of schools including Sibusiswe in providing support and guidance.
“We went to celebrate with them because for the year 2025, they were the top feeder for DUT. It is for that reason that we saw the need to celebrate with them on their remarkable achievement. Congratulations to them, obtaining 100% three times consecutively was not easy, especially noting that the school is from the underprivileged background,’’ he explained.
English teacher, Ms Mnguni Mkhize, who has been with the school since 2018, expressed disbelief and pride at the consistency of the results.
“Our learners are disciplined, respectful, and proactive. That is what makes this possible year after year,” she said.
Among the shining stars was Sandile Mhlongo, the Learner Representative Council (LRC) President, who made history by becoming the first learner at the school to achieve 100% in the History subject. He encouraged his peers to believe in themselves.
“Discipline and resilience pushed me to excel. If I did it, you can do it too,” he said.
Another top achiever, Alwande Ngcobo (18), shared her joy after obtaining a 100% pass. “It was not easy, but making my parents proud is one of the best moments of my life. I am excited and I cannot wait to pursue my dream,” she said.
The top achievers with eight distinctions (100%) were:
Nhlalwenhle Khuzwayo, Siphokazi Mahaye, Alwande Ngcobo, Lungani Ngcongo and Sandile Mhlongo.
Those who achieved seven distinctions were: Wendy Cele, Lulama Hlengwa, Siphesihle Khomo, Aphiwe Ngidi, Anele Ntobela and Akhona Shishane.
Sibusisiwe High has not only achieved results, but it has also inspired hope, proven resilience, and shown that with unity and dedication, greatness is inevitable.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
