Phola — National recognition has followed Makause Combined School after learner Sanele Vilakazi was ranked among South Africa’s top 40 learners, highlighting both his academic perseverance and the school’s consistent record of excellence within the eMalahleni 3 Circuit.
Makause Combined School has maintained a 100% matric pass rate and has remained the leading school in the eMalahleni 3 Circuit since 2018, reinforcing its reputation as one of Mpumalanga’s most reliable academic performers.
Vilakazi’s achievement comes amid increasing competition among top learners in South Africa, making his placement particularly significant. Speaking to Highveld Chronicle, he reflected on the motivation and discipline that shaped his academic journey.
“I was never a top student performer since Grade 8, but after I saw Gugu Libambo, the matric 2024 top student, I got motivated,” he said. “It wasn’t easy, but with the support I received from my parents, teachers and everyone around me, it was possible, I was sleeping only for three hours.”
His academic success has opened new opportunities. On 14 January 2026, Vilakazi received an offer to study Data Engineering at Stellenbosch University, one of South Africa’s leading institutions in science and technology. He intends to pursue a career within the growing fields of data and analytics, drawing on his strengths in mathematics and technology.
Makause Combined School Principal Jan Ntuli praised Vilakazi’s achievement, describing it as a reflection of the school’s culture of discipline and resilience. “Your work will always speak for you,” Ntuli said, emphasising that Vilakazi’s perseverance is a reflection of what Makause stands for: a learning environment that encourages resilience, ambition and the pursuit of academic distinction.
Ntuli emphasised that academic excellence is driven by accountability and leadership that extends beyond the classroom. “If a learner is absent, I will personally drive to their home, fetch them and bring them to school,” he said, adding that consistent support and commitment are essential to achieving strong results.
He further added that no learner should be left behind. “Our results reflect the sacrifices we are willing to make as educators. If it takes me showing up at a learner’s house to make sure they are in class, then that is exactly what I will do,” he said.
Beyond individual achievements, Makause Combined School continues to perform strongly at district and provincial level. The school is ranked among the top 28 out of 528 secondary schools in Mpumalanga and currently holds fifth position in the Nkangala District, reflecting sustained academic performance.
The school’s success is supported by strong collaboration between educators, parents and the broader community. Teachers are known for their hands-on mentorship, while parents play an active role in ensuring learner discipline and focus.
Vilakazi’s journey has become a source of inspiration for learners across the region, demonstrating that academic success can be achieved through perseverance, guidance and sustained effort. As the school celebrates this milestone, its leadership hopes Vilakazi’s achievement will motivate current and future learners to strive for excellence.
