06 Feb 2025

In a display of academic excellence, Meepong and Makhubu Junior Secondary Schools from Selebi-Phikwe region secured spots in the top five national rankings for the recently released Junior Certificate Examination (JCE) results.

Meepong JSS secured third position with a pass rate of 74.9%, while Makhubu JSS followed in fourth place with a 70.1% pass rate.

In a wave of jubilation, students and teachers from Meepong took to the streets to celebrate their impressive achievements with a march to the Selebi-Phikwe Education Offices to present their results to the education officials.

The parade snaked through the mall, with rhythmic chants, claps and cheers that echoed the spirit of achievement as well as some placards displaying messages of gratitude.

Meepong school head, Mr Thulaganyo Mbulawa noted that this year’s pass rate of 74.9% reflected a decrease from the 2023 achievements where the school celebrated a pass rate of 79.8%.

He attributed the dip in pass rate percentage to challenges including transfer in of form three students with bad marks, indiscipline of some students who ended up being suspended and had to only come to school under the escort of their parents during examinations.

“We are proud of our students and the entire school community. This is a testament to the consistency of hard work and dedication from teachers in their efforts to academically build students. This inspires us to continue to strive for excellence despite the challenges we operate under,” he said.

He acknowledge the support and sacrifices from the Parents Teachers Association (PTA).

On the other hand, Makhubu school head, Ms Josephine Modise also shared that being in the fourth position on the JCE national ranking proved the students’ academic capabilities, showcasing their resilience and commitment towards learning.

“This accomplishment reflects the dedication of teachers and the determination of students. We aim to continue with this success and continue to encourage learners to maximise their potential,” she said.

Ms Modise also attributed the achievement to the successful collaboration with PTA, increased monitored study time, and tutoring and other comprehensive support programmes among others.

The Chief Education Officer, Mr Tshwarelo Hosia remarked that the results were a testament to the commitment and care from the teachers about the future of the children.

“There are lot of challenges in schools in the region, but this has not dampened the spirit of excellence among teachers. They applied themselves, created a conducive environment with the little they had and the students also played their part well. This is all about good governance within the school,” he said.

Mr Hosia emphasised that such achievements should inspire other schools in the region and elsewhere to do better. ENDS