WATCH: South Africa’s top matric learner reflects on her road to success

IT was a proud moment for Durban school Al-Falaah College when matriculant Husnaa Haffejee was named the top matric pupil in South Africa.

In a statement, Haffejee, a Glenwood resident, reflected on her road to success, commenting on a few milestones along the way.

While Haffejee has been named the top matric in the country, she is currently waiting to receive her results.

“I am honoured to have been acknowledged as one of South Africa’s top achievers. I can’t fully express my gratitude to, first and foremost, Allah, and to my parents, family, principals, teachers and peers who have offered me their support and guidance.”

Haffejee, who hails from the United Kingdom, attended Al-Falaah College as a Grade Five learner when her parents returned to South Africa. Haffejee said she had maintained her position as top student ever since. As a Grade Six learner, she was awarded a gold medal for placing among the top 1% in the world in the international ICAS examination.

ALSO READ: Matriculants and proud parents celebrate final results

Another notable achievement for Haffejee was when she participated in the National Afrikaans Olympiad during her matric year, going on to place first in KZN and third in the country.

“This achievement was notable as I was the only non-Afrikaans name amongst the top achievers. I hold this particular achievement dear to me as when I initially returned from England, I did not know a single word of Afrikaans and was tackling an unknown subject,” remarked the top achiever.

Haffejee received a full scholarship throughout her high school career.

“The teachers and staff at Al-Falaah College have been instrumental in my academic success, and I am eternally grateful for their backing and counsel,” she said.

Haffejee attributes her success to her teachers’ guidance, her faith and family support.

ALSO READ: Glenwood matriculant passes with flying colours

“I believe that my faith has played a significant role in the success I have achieved. Islam teaches us to
strive to seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave, and instils within us, as Muslims, an appreciation for learning and teaching. This has definitely helped me to remain focused and motivated throughout my schooling career,” said Haffejee.

She expressed her gratitude to her parents and grandparents.

“Whenever I doubted myself, [my parents] were always there to reassure me of my abilities, and I will be eternally indebted to them,” she said.

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