05 February 2025
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa – February 5, 2025
The UMgungundlovu District Matric Class of 2024 Awards Ceremony, held at the Pietermaritzburg Athletic Stadium, was a resounding success, celebrating the academic excellence and achievements of the district’s top learners. The event, led by Mayor Cllr Mzi Zuma, was a collaborative effort between the Department of Education UMgungundlovu District, the South African Youth Council, and the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council. The ceremony was supported by notable stakeholders and sponsors, including SBD (Business Systems Smart by Design), Max Prof, Nduleko Group, Hulamin, Metropolitan, and Shuter & Shooter.
The event commenced with an opening address by the Chairperson of the South African Youth Council, who highlighted the purpose of the day: to celebrate and recognize the achievements of the youth while motivating them to strive for greatness in their future endeavors. The Chairperson emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent and inspiring learners to become leaders of tomorrow.
Dr. Lawrence Khanyile of the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council delivered a powerful message, describing the youth as “the light and hope of Africa.” He compared the learners to eagles, urging them to soar high and reach their full potential. His words resonated deeply with the audience, setting a tone of inspiration and hope for the future.
Mayor Cllr Mzi Zuma, in his address, emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and staying rooted in African values. He urged learners not to become “an island of prosperity in a sea of poverty,” reminding them of their responsibility to uplift their families and communities. The Mayor also highlighted the government’s commitment to education, declaring it an “Apex priority” and the fastest equalizer of society. He praised educators for their dedication, stating that they often go beyond the call of duty to ensure the success of their students.
The ceremony concluded with messages of support from sponsors, who expressed their commitment to empowering the youth through education. The event featured the presentation of bursary awards, laptops, laptop bags, trophies, and certificates to deserving learners. These awards not only recognized academic excellence but also provided tangible support to help students pursue their dreams.
The highlight of the event was the crowning of Philile Ngubane from Zuzulwazi Secondary School as the district’s highest achiever. Philile delivered an inspirational speech on behalf of all 2024 Matric learners, expressing gratitude to her teachers, family, and community for their support. Her words left a lasting impression on the audience, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and determination that defined the Class of 2024.