Executive Mayor Cllr Walter Mngomezulu today led a special school visit programme to honour a commitment made by Mpumalanga Premier Mr Mandla Ndlovu earlier this year Tjakastad within the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality area. Joined by the Member of the Mpumalanga Legislature, Mr Dan Nkosi, and Executive Mayor of Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality, Cllr Mbuso Magubane, the delegation visited three outstanding schools that achieved a 100% matric pass rate in 2024.
The schools visited were Khuzulwandle High School in Ward 13, Mkolishi High School in Ward 18, and Nsika Secondary School, also in Ward 18. Each school was recognised for its exceptional academic achievement and received full school uniforms for deserving learners. Khuzulwandle High School received 100 chairs as part of the Premier’s promise for the much needed school furniture.
Premier Ndlovu had made a heartfelt promise during his January visit to support these high-performing schools—and today, that promise was fulfilled.
Speaking to hundreds of enthusiastic learners, Cllr Mngomezulu said: “We are here to keep a promise. When the Premier made a commitment to support schools that are doing well, it was more than just words. It was a declaration of belief in you—the learners, the future leaders of this province. Today, we stand here delivering on that promise because your hard work, your 100% pass rate, deserves to be recognised and rewarded.” He also provided information about a programme both municipalities have agreed upon, where 2026 students accepted in universities but lacking in registration fees will be assisted.
The visit was not only about the handovers, but also about celebrating excellence and motivating learners to continue striving for academic success. Mr Dan Nkosi added: “I was once a leaner here in Nsika Secondary School and pointed his former class, to the excitement of the learners”. He further said, our children deserve dignity, and part of that dignity is being able to go to school properly dressed and seated in conducive learning environments. Today is about restoring that dignity.”
Cllr Mbuso Magubane applauded the collaborative effort and emphasized the importance of sustained support saying, “We are proud of these schools. The commitment from government is not once-off—we will continue to stand by our schools and ensure that no learner is left behind.”
The initiative is part of a broader provincial drive to support education in rural areas and build a future defined by equal opportunity and excellence.