Zimbabwean Student Defies Odds, Crowned South Africa’s 2025 Top Matric Candidate

Zimbabwean Student Shines As South Africa’s Top Matric Candidate

A story of extraordinary triumph emerged from the 2025 matric results as Takunda Muchuweni, a Zimbabwean student, was officially crowned South Africa’s top candidate with special educational needs. Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier made the announcement on 12 January 2026, highlighting the young scholar’s achievement as part of the province’s record-breaking academic performance. The accolade highlights a remarkable personal victory within a historic national examination period.

“South Africa’s top matric candidate with Special Education Needs is Takunda Muchuweni, from Jan Kriel School in Kuils River! Congratulations Takunda, this is an incredible testament to your hard work.”

Historic Results For The Western Cape

Takunda’s crowning moment came as the Western Cape celebrated its highest-ever academic achievements. According to the official government statement, the province’s matric pass rate climbed to a historic 88.2%, while the critical bachelor’s pass rate reached 49.2%. These results were achieved alongside the country’s best learner retention rate of 70.0%.

Special Needs Learners Achieve National Excellence

The performance of learners with special educational needs (LSEN) stood as a pillar of the province’s success. This group achieved a phenomenal pass rate of 91.9%, with 60.4% attaining bachelor’s passes. Minister Maynier’s statement specifically highlighted this cohort’s national standing.

“Our Learners with Special Education Needs matric pass rate is 91.9%, and we have the 2nd highest bachelors pass rate for LSEN candidates in the country at 60.4%.”

Dual Victories On The National Stage

While Takunda’s victory captured headlines, the Western Cape also produced the country’s overall top achiever for the fifth consecutive year. Abigail Kok from York High School in George earned the title of South Africa’s top matric candidate for 2025. Minister Maynier shared her success in a separate social media post, directing attention to her journey.

“South Africa’s top matric candidate, Abigail Kok from York High School in George, shares her secret to success and her advice to the #ClassOf2026!”

With official results released on 13 January 2026, the focus now shifts to the future. The provincial education department has already passed the challenge to the Class of 2026, urging them to build upon this legacy of exceptional achievement.