In a heartwarming gesture to commemorate the incredible accomplishments of the class of 2024, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Recruitment unit took time to celebrate the outstanding achievements of schools in the King Cetshwayo District. On Tuesday, 14 January 2025, Student Recruitment Officer and project leader Michael Zulu, visited Aquadene Secondary School in Richards Bay, Tholokuhle High School in Nseleni, and Mevamhlophe High School in eMpangeni to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of the class of 2024.
Mevamhlophe High School has set an inspiring example with three consecutive years of 100% matric pass rates. The class of 2024 achieved 126 Bachelor passes, 9 Diploma passes, and an impressive 297 distinctions. Deputy Principal MK Ngubane expressed immense pride, emphasising the commitment of learners and teachers. “This success is a testament to the early mornings, sleepless nights, and relentless determination of everyone involved. It was not an easy journey, but seeing the joy of our learners and their parents makes it all worthwhile,” he said. To honour this achievement, DUT gifted the school with a prestigious watch, symbolising the value of time, hard work, and dedication.
Tholokuhle High School celebrated a 10.1% improvement in their matric pass rate. Among the highlights were exceptional performances from their top 10 achievers, who earned distinctions in various subjects, including the challenging Physical Sciences. Principal Sibongile Xulu expressed her gratitude and pride, stating, “We are ecstatic about the progress our learners have made. Despite the challenges of accommodating a large number of matriculants, the dedication of our teachers and learners has paid off.” Mthokozisi Ntshangase, one of the school’s top achievers with eight distinctions, shared her excitement, “I am beyond grateful for the support from my parents and teachers. Hard work truly pays off. I am now ready to pursue my dream of earning a degree and making my family proud.”
Aquadene Secondary School achieved an impressive 97.8% matric pass rate for 2024, with hopes of reaching 100% next year. Principal Scelo Phakathi thanked Mr Zulu for his guidance in helping students make informed career choices and extended his appreciation to the learners for their remarkable efforts. One of the school’s shining stars was first-time Grade 12 teacher, Nkabinde Thobela, who achieved a stellar 98.9% pass rate in Mathematical Literacy. “This has been an amazing experience, and I am motivated to push for a perfect 100% next year,” said Thobela.
Michael Zulu shared his enthusiasm for the impact he has made in schools, encouraging learners to prioritise their education and strive for excellence, many students have achieved outstanding results. Reflecting on his success, he stated, “Having interacted with just over 1316 schools in the year 2024, we are aiming to improve that number and also include more provinces. We truly value the relationship we have built with our schools and the Department of Basic Education, and we are committed to strengthening these partnerships further.”
This celebration was more than just an acknowledgment of academic achievements; it was a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and community support. Mr Zulu expressed his hope that these learners would continue to strive for excellence as they embark on their tertiary education journeys, many of them considering DUT as their next step.
Pictured: DUT Student Recruitment Officer, Machael Zulu celebrating with Mevamhlophe Deputy Principal for their 100% matric pass rate.
Photography: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
