Hard work and determination proved to be the driving forces behind Abigail Kok being named South Africa’s top matric achiever for 2025. She also claimed the top position nationally in Physical Sciences.
The York High School learner from George achieved an exceptional overall average of 98.4%.
Kok, together with the Western Cape’s top-performing learners, was honoured at the province’s annual National Senior Certificate Awards Ceremony, held today at the Premier’s official residence in Leeuwenhof.
Provincial results reach new heights
The Western Cape achieved its highest pass rate of 88.2%, up from the record-breaking 86.6% in 2024.
The province’s bachelor’s pass rate increased from 47.8% to 49.2%.
This is also the highest ever for the province, and the second highest in the country.
ALSO READ: Historic 88% pass rate marks best-ever matric results for South Africa
Kok told People’s Post being named first in the country still feels surreal.
Kok told People’s Post being named first in the country still feels surreal.
“It is a massive privilege. I only have God to thank that I am here. It was a wild dream come true. Last year was fun for me, yes it was hard work and exams, but it was amazing.”
She shared an inspiring message with the class of 2026.
“Good luck and I hope you find a balance. May you enjoy and remember to laugh. Because yes, exams are important, but they can also steal your joy. God bless.”
David Maynier, provincial education minister, lauded the learners for their “exemplary achievement” and wished them well for the future.
Top LSEN achiever overcomes challenges
Takunda Muchuweni from Jan Kriel School in Kuils River, was announced as the top LSEN matric candidate (Learners with Special Education Needs) in the country.
Despite living with muscular dystrophy, Takunda stayed focused and committed to her academics.
She explains some of the challenges she experienced during her matric year.
“During my matric year there were many days I was in physical pain and sick and that influenced my mood and energy and how I wrote my exams. There were times I wrote my exams while I was sick.”
Ministerial award recognises perseverance
Roux Basson, from Piketberg High School on the West Coast, received the ministerial award.
This award recognises candidates who achieved excellent academic results each year despite significant hardship, ill health, and personal challenges.
Basson was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) early last year and began intensive chemotherapy.
Despite major treatment, including knee transplant surgery and further chemotherapy, he continued attending school, meeting academic requirements, and supporting school activities.
He completed his final matric exams while still in treatment and achieved excellent results, earning a bachelor’s pass with three distinctions, including strong passes in Mathematics and Physical Science.
Basson told People’s Post his family and friends kept him motivated.
“There is always light at the end of the tunnel. You must keep pushing to get there. My family and friends were always there for me.”
Premier Alan Winde encouraged the learners to dream big and not let fear stand in their way.
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