Awards for Drakensberg Comprehensive matric learners
Learners were rewarded for their hard work and dedication throughout the year
Submitted by Naison Goremusandu (educator)
Drakensberg Comprehensive High School held their matric awards ceremony on November 28. The event was graced by the heavens that opened up throughout the whole proceedings and as they say, we should rejoice and be grateful for the rains, as they bring good harvests. The matric parents braved the chilly weather and made it to the tent where the event was held.
At the venue alone, one could see the great lengths that the school has to go to in order to ensure the success of this event, despite the odds against us.
School principal Mr Mlambo urged parents and the entire Estcourt community to consider the future of the ‘African child’ and assist the cash-strapped school to build a school hall wherein such momentous events can be held in the future.
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Drakensberg Comprehensive High School is a non-fee paying school and as such, does not have any other form of income to supplement the school coffers except for the annual government allocation which is usually swarmed by learner / teaching and learning support materials and other non-avoidable financial obligations.
It’s quite a ‘hustle’ to say the least to run the school, with over 944 learners and such meagre resources. However, the above plights are not an excuse and rather inspires academic excellence and the relentless pursuit of producing well-rounded individuals who can make a difference in our communities.
Drakensberg Comprehensive has produced captains of industry and professionals, and will continue every year to churn out a group of learners who can change the world for the better.
While the rest of our rich neighbouring schools have bottomless ceremonies showcasing their glitz and glamor, Drakensberg Comprehensive High School learners, teachers, the SGB and our esteemed guests were treated to a ‘three-man free show’. The three were…
Sphesihle Dlamini, a Science student and overall Dux recipient of the year, obtained individual best performance accolades in Mathematics, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Geography and isiZulu.
Sanele Mahlaba scooped the first runner-up in overall performance and the best in Technical Science, EGDRS, Mechanical Technology (Electronics), Mechanical Technology (Welding) and Life Orientation; and second runner-up in overall performance.
Andisiwe Hlubi was the best student in English, Mathematical Literacy, Economics and Accounting.
Several other students were recognised for their outstanding achievements in extra and co-curricular activities. The guest speakers echoed the principal’s sentiments that learners should never feel ashamed of who they are and where they come from; instead they must work hard to be the best and change their circumstances at home.
One should never forget where one comes from, and one parent tearfully related her ordeal of being an unemployed mother but striving to provide her child with nothing much but her mother’s love and support. She is not ashamed to say that her child has made her feel like a person in front of other people (umntwana wami wangenza ukuthi ngibe ngumntu phambi kwabantu).
Other former students at Drakensberg Comprehensive urged the learners to follow their dreams and not hesitate to cry out for help, as all successful people have become successful because someone out there helped them in some way.
Event organiser, trend-setter and the ever-bubbly Ms Mkhize thanked all the students for their hard work and presented gifts to the guest speakers on behalf of the school. Thank you to our sponsors who provided much-needed support.
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