Matrics are ‘remarkable’

Tough Going: They Achieved Exceptional Results Against All Odds, Says Minister

- Thando Nondywana

» New Hope's Baloyi tells of hardship being in a wheelchair - one of many challenges.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube described the Class of 2024 as a remarkable cohort which achieved exceptional results against the odds. The minister made the remark as she hosted top achievers at a celebratory breakfast in Roodepoort.

Malwandla Baloyi, who attended New Hope School for (pupils with) learning and physical disabilities in Pretoria, was born with disabilities that require her to use a wheelchair.

“I felt overwhelmed because I worked so hard. It was shocking and I am still processing that I made it here. With my condition, it is hard to have a normal school period like other pupils. I have brittle bone disease and during winter, my bones become very painful. I also have scoliosis and my back hurts a lot,” she said.

Baloyi said her matric year was filled with challenges due to her health, which often forced her to miss school, critical tests and curriculum content.

“Those months were the most challenging because I missed a lot of school. It is even more shocking that I am here among the top achievers nationally,” she said.