Ward 116 celebrates top matriculants of 2024

Ward 116 councillor Solomon Philander hosted a special recognition ceremony for the top five matriculants of 2024 of Darul Arqam, Oval North and Beacon Hill high schools on Saturday, May 10.

Darul Arqam Islamic High School achieved a 100% pass rate, Oval North High 91.7% and Beacon Hill High 88.6% in last year’s matric exams.

Mr Philander acknowledged the top achievers and invited their parents, principals, and teachers to join the celebration.

Guest speaker Lance Minnies, a former Beacon Hill High pupil, inspired the class of 2024 with his story of courage and hope. In June 2016, while in Grade 11, Mr Minnies survived a devastating fire in which he suffered severe burn wounds and several of his relatives died.

Jonas McCarthy in the councillor’s office shared details of the services the youngsters can access through the Ward 116 youth desk.

Quoting late president Nelson Mandela who said that education is the most powerful weapon one can use to change the world, Mr Philander urged the matriculants to continue to persevere despite their socio-economic challenges.

“The heavy challenges youth face today, especially in Mitchell’s Plain, can be a risk for your future but through your education you will be able to think critically and make informed decisions amidst these challenges,” he said.

Mr Philander also thanked the pupils’ parents, teachers and principals for supporting the matriculants despite their limited resources.

“We know that our schools do not offer the many extra-curricular activities other schools offer but we compete by writing the same exam.

“With your dedication and support, learners from the three high schools in Ward 116 are achieving more,” he said.

“It takes a community to raise a child. Although the responsibility is primarily with the parent, we know that the school community, community projects, religious institutions, your neighbour and early childhood development facilities all had a hand in raising your child,” he added.