Car and cash for top matric student “I thank God for what He has done in my life”

- The Mpumalanga Education Department has honoured the achievements of a matriculant from Thulamahashi

- The boy received 8 distinctions, achieving 100% in 3 subjects, and was awarded a full bursary, along with cash, and a car

- He plans to further his studies at the University of Cape Town

One matric pupil has proven that it pays to work hard.

Thalentha Ngobeni, from Kumani village outside Thulamahashi was honoured by the Mpumalanga Department of Education on Wednesday.

The 16-year-old passed all eight subjects with distinction, and to honour his achievements, he received special gifts, including a car and cash.

At a ceremony held at Oaks Secondary School the gifts were handed over by the MEC for Education Reginah Mhaule and ANC regional secretary Folus Sibuyi.

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Briefly.co.za learned that Thalentha also received money from the IDC, Standard Bank, Sasol, a laptop, a travelling bag and a small fridge from Vodacom, Old Mutual and Bongani Rain.

Chief Magwagwaza Mnisi slaughtered a cow in his honour.

“He has received a full bursary from the department, including pocket money,” said Mhaule, who praised his accomplishments. The matriculant passed all his subjects with distinction and got 100% for maths, physical science and accounting.

Business executive Dr Reuel Khoza handed Thalentha a special gift and said they welcomed him to the galaxy of stars in the area which included people like himself, Professor Dr Eddie Mhlanga, anthropologist Dr PX Shilubane, the late education professor Donald Mahlangu and Dr Hamilton Mnisi.

Thalentha expressed his gratitude for the gifts, and said he was humbled by the recognition.

“This car means a lot to me. I might not yet have a licence to drive it but I thank God for what He has done in my life.

“I couldn’t believe it when I received a call to say I had performed well,” he added.

Thalentha advised the class of 2018 that they must stay away from drugs and study hard.

“They must improve on the pass rate of the class of 2017,” he said.

Thalentha plans to study actuarial science at the University of Cape Town.

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Source: Briefly News