True excellence is born from heart and hard work – a truth beautifully personified by the incredible journey of Takunda Muchuweni, the Class of 2025’s top LSEN matriculant!
Gauteng, South Africa (13 January 2026) – Takunda Muchuweni, from Jan Kriel School in Kuils River, has been announced as the Top LSEN matric candidate (Learners with Special Education Needs) in the country!
Despite courageously battling the challenges of muscular dystrophy, Takunda remained dedicated to her academics. Her hard work led her to become the 2025 Dux Learner, achieving impressive final results that secured her spot among the nation’s top performers.
These achievements further earned her an invitation to the prestigious DBE Ministerial Matric Awards in Gauteng yesterday.
“This prestigious event recognises the top-performing matric learners in the country, and Takunda is one of only 44 learners selected nationwide, which is truly an outstanding achievement,” her school proudly shared.
Jan Kriel School has praised her for flying the school’s flag high, and expressed its pride in her dedication, perseverance, and excellence.
“We are beyond proud to celebrate Takunda Muchuweni. This extraordinary achievement is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and belief, there are no limits to what our learners can achieve.”
Takunda’s journey is best described as one of resilience, perseverance, and excellence.
“Takunda, you are a true trailblazer and an inspiration to all. You have made Jan Kriel School incredibly proud and shown what is possible when potential is nurtured and dreams are pursued with courage,” Jan Kriel School continues.
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The overall province’s matric pass rate increased from last year’s record-breaking 86.6% to 88.2%, which is the highest pass rate the Western Cape has received since the National Senior Certificate was introduced.
Another top candidate from the province was Abigail Kok, from York High School in George, who was announced the Class of 2025’s top candidate, and the top candidate in Physical Science.
Congratulations to these inspiring top achievers and the entire Class of 2025 on an excellent set of results! You have been one of the hardest-working matric classes to date, and you can rightly celebrate your achievements. Your dedication to your studies has set a wonderful example for future classes of matrics.
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