Jan Kriel School’s dux learner for 2025, Takunda Muchuweni, was announced as the top learner with special education needs (LSEN) in the country at the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) Ministerial Matric Awards in Randburg, Gauteng on Monday (12 January).
The prestigious national recognition, awarded to outstanding matriculants across various categories, came as a complete surprise to the determined young woman who has overcome significant physical challenges to achieve academic excellence.
The school said this extraordinary achievement is a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and belief, there are no limits to what their learners can achieve.
Perseverance
Takunda’s journey truly is one of resilience, perseverance, and excellence.
Despite living with congenital myopathy—a rare, genetic muscle disorder causing low muscle tone (hypotonia) and weakness—Takunda achieved an outstanding seven distinctions in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations.
At times she had to push through and write exams even when experiencing severe muscle or joint pain or feeling sick, she shared. Sitting through a two-hour-plus exam was sometimes especially challenging. “Having pain can also influence one’s mood and make studying a challenge,” she recalled.
Leadership and community involvement
Beyond her academic success, Takunda distinguished herself as a leader and role model within the school and broader community.
She was named the dux learner and served on the learner council for two consecutive years. In 2024, during her Grade 11 year, she was also selected to serve on the Cape Town Junior City Council.
Takunda said Jan Kriel School offered a great support system. “I felt really privileged to be in a school with so many resources and helpful people.”
She spent her final three school years at Jan Kriel after moving from Paarl School in Brackenfell at the beginning of Grade 10.
A welcome surprise
The invitation to the Ministerial Matric Awards came as a huge surprise. “I had no words when I was called on Friday evening, being invited… It didn’t feel real until at the awards,” Takunda said.
Her advice for the matriculants of 2026 is clear: “Keep on believing in yourself, work hard, stay focused and consistent.”
Takunda wants to become an industrial psychologist, “working in human relations”. Awaiting final confirmation, she will either be studying at Stellenbosch University or at the University of Cape Town.
Jan Kriel’s overall results
Takunda’s achievements form part of Jan Kriel School’s overall strong performance in the 2025 NSC examinations. The class of 2025 achieved a 98,6% pass rate and 76,8% bachelor’s pass rate.
Of the 69 registered candidates, 68 learners received their results, achieving a total of 16 distinctions across a range of subjects. The school’s top three academic performers were Takunda Muchuweni, James Boucher and Jacqueline Blou.
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