Mathibela High School in Alexandria, Bushbuckridge, hosted a motivational ceremony on Wednesday to encourage Grade 12 learners as they prepare for their final examinations starting on 21 October 2025.

The highlight of the event was the launch of the Lazarus Phiri Top Achiever Award, created in memory of the late Lazarus Phiri, a long-serving member of the School Governing Body. The award comes with a voucher worth R2 500, which will be presented annually to the school’s top-performing matric learner. The school confirmed that the value of the voucher will increase in the coming years, with a target of R5 000, ensuring the award grows as a lasting investment in academic excellence.

Opening with a prayer led by Pastor Mabuza, the programme was filled with words of encouragement from a range of dignitaries. These included representatives from SADTU, feeder schools, and the local ward councillor, Honourable Mkhabela S., all of whom urged learners to embrace education as a life-changing opportunity.

Honourable Khumalo R., Speaker of the Ehlanzeni District, encouraged learners to draw strength from Phiri’s legacy and to focus on producing excellent results. Guest speaker Mrs Masuku reminded learners that discipline, determination, and self-belief are key to success, particularly in the final stretch before exams.

Parents and learners also pledged their commitment to supporting one another, with student representative Fortunate Makhubela speaking on behalf of the Class of 2025. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from SGB Chairperson Mr Khumalo L.S., who commended the community for its united support of the learners.

The Lazarus Phiri Award is expected to boost morale and inspire learners to give their very best during exams and beyond. As the Class of 2025 prepares to write, the message was clear: your community believes in you, your hard work will be rewarded, and your future is worth striving for.

To the Matric Class of 2025: stay strong, stay focused, and write your story of success with courage and determination. The finish line is near, and the future is waiting for you.