Shabalala Secondary School hosted a high-profile briefing on 07 August that opened with a prayer and warm welcome from Chairperson of the SGB Mr. Kgwedi, a dedicated parent who expressed his deep love for the school, community, and education.

“I love society, and I love education. I want to contribute to ensure our children do well,” Mr. Kgwedi said as he welcomed guests, including the MEC and 2 other visiting schools. He emphasized the significance of recognising schools in rural areas and expressed gratitude for the privilege of hosting the MEC at Shabalala Secondary School.

The school, which enrolled 217 Grade 12 learners in 2025, aims to maintain a 100% matric pass rate. So far, it has achieved 96% in Term 1 and 98% in Term 2. “Our target remains 100%,” said the school’s leadership.

The MEC Ms. Lindi Masina thanked everyone in attendance and offered special praise to the teachers for their dedication, hard work, and commitment. “To our learners, we are here today because of you,” the MEC added, also acknowledging two partnering primary schools Mhwayi Primary school and Sifunfekhaya Primary School

The visit was part of the department’s Rhandza Xikolo Xa Wena campaign, which supports and appreciates schools in need. The MEC applauded Shabalala Secondary School’s consistent high performance over the past three years and encouraged the principal to share the school’s success strategies with neighbouring institutions.

In celebration of Women’s Month, the department announced a generous donation of full school uniforms to 104 learners across three schools: 40 sets to Shabalala Secondary, 44 to Mhwayi Primary, and 50 to Sifunfekhaya Primary.

The MEC reaffirmed the department’s confidence that Shabalala will once again achieve a 100% pass rate. “Keep pushing, never give up. It doesn’t matter how slow you go, as long as you don’t stop,” the MEC encouraged learners. The visit concluded with a renewed call for cooperation among parents, teachers, and school leaders to ensure that education in rural communities continues to thrive.