NKANGALA — As the Class of 2026 prepares for its final National Senior Certificate examinations, municipal leaders in Thembisile Hani and Dr JS Moroka are encouraging matriculants to remain focused, pursue further studies and take advantage of educational opportunities.
Thembisile Hani Local Municipality has opened applications for its 2026 Mayoral Bursary Scheme, aimed at assisting young people who wish to further their education after matric.
Executive Mayor Cllr Lesetja Dikgale extended his best wishes to matriculants across the municipality and South Africa, urging them to approach their examinations with confidence and determination.
“It is through your dedication, resilience and sacrifice that you have gotten this far, and as you sit for your examinations, remember that we are behind you. Your future starts now, study hard, and believe in yourself. Remember, education is the key that unlocks your future and the future of Thembisile Hani. Good luck to you all," he said.
As part of efforts to raise awareness about the bursary scheme, the municipality conducted a roadshow at five secondary schools, including Mphumelomuhle, Mkhephuli, Ziphakamiseni, Vukuzamel and Dumelani.
The roadshow aimed to inform learners about available bursary opportunities, encourage them to plan for education beyond matric and motivate eligible candidates to apply.
Prospective applicants have been encouraged to familiarise themselves with the bursary requirements and submit their applications within the stipulated period.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality, Speaker and ANC Nkangala Regional Chairperson Cllr Jonas Boshomane visited Sele Senior Secondary School in Molapoamogale/Kameelpoort on Monday, 12 October 2026, to motivate matriculants ahead of their final examinations.
Boshomane encouraged learners not to allow their circumstances to limit their ambitions and urged them to continue improving their qualifications beyond matric.
“Never give up on studying to advance your qualifications so that you can have a better future. Yesterday you knew me as a Speaker, but you can wake up tomorrow and find me promoted to another position with another qualification. As I speak, I am still willing to advance my own qualifications. I am not giving up,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of lifelong learning, reminding learners that education does not end after completing matric.
Boshomane also commended the learners for reaching their final examinations despite facing storms, heavy rain and other challenges throughout the year.
He said reaching this stage was an achievement in itself, particularly as some learners had dropped out along the way.
His message to the Class of 2026 was one of determination and hope, encouraging them to remain committed to their academic goals regardless of their circumstances.
“Go out there and shine, make us and yourselves proud. Do not let your environment determine your destination.”
Both initiatives highlighted the importance of education in creating opportunities for young people, with Thembisile Hani focusing on access to financial support for further studies and Dr JS Moroka encouraging learners to remain determined and continue advancing their qualifications.
