Jeppe High School for Boys has received a 98 per cent pass rate with 165 distinctions.
Seventy-six per cent of the learners passed with bachelor exemption and 20 per cent with diploma exemption.
The highlight of the results was the nine distinctions achieved by Avinal Garach.
“Hard work and dedication have paid off. I’m happy that I have achieved my goal of being on the nine distinction board like I aimed for when I first started at the school,” said Avinal.
The top student said when he arrived at the school he noticed the board in the hall that only had two names on it. The names were of learners who had achieved nine distinctions. There and then he set a goal for himself. He wanted to have his name on that board.
“Setting goals is important because it helps you to manage your time and that is what I did the past five years,” said Avinal.
He said he spent 16 hours preparing for the exams. He plans to study computer science, which is his passion. He has been accepted at UCT, but he would love to study overseas.
“I’m starting a new chapter in my life and I would like to go overseas and study there while I have an opportunity to learn a new culture and meet new people. I have applied to different universities and I am waiting for the response,” said Avinal.
The EXPRESS asked Avinal with such exceptional results what sacrifices had to be made to achieve his goal.
“I did not have to sacrifice much because I learned to manage my time, which is very important because that way you can manage what you do with your time. I still hang out with my friends and also participated in sport, but made sure I had enough time with my books,” explained Avinal.
He said he will miss his school career, especially what the school stands for.
“As a Jeppe boy, I learned to be kind, respect others and appreciate life. The school has built my character. I am who I am today because of Jeppe,” said Avinal.
He said his teachers have played a big role in his schooling.
“The teachers took the time to make sure I could reach my full potential. They did not only teach us, but also mentored and guided us,” said Avinal.
He also thanked his parents for the support.
“My parents had been very supportive and I appreciate that. I would like to say thank you to them because their support got me here and helped in achieving my goals,” said Avinal.
The top student had advice for the incoming Grade 8’s.
“When you get to the school find people you can relate too. Befriend people who share the same ideas, and also set goals of what you want to achieve at the end of your schooling year,” concluded Avinal.
Avinal achieved distinctions in English, Afrikaans, mathematics, life orientation, accounting, AP mathematics, business studies, IT and physical science.
Anré Waters achieved eight distinctions for Afrikaans, mathematics, life orientation, accounting, AP mathematics, IT, life sciences and physical science.
Matthew de Bie achieved seven distinctions for English, Afrikaans, mathematics, life orientation, accounting, business studies and physical science.
Preston van Tonder achieved seven distinctions for Afrikaans, life orientation, mathematics, accounting, AP mathematics, life sciences and physical science.
Sebastian de Beer achieved six distinctions for English, accounting, life orientation, mathematics, IT and physical science.
Jabulani Mdluli achieved six distinctions for IsiZulu, life orientation, mathematics, accounting, life sciences and physical science.
Five distinctions were achieved by Richmond Arthur, Thabiso Mamba, and Ryan Naamdhew.
