Gwarube attributes academic triumphs to community efforts

Minister of Basic Education of South Africa, Siviwe Gwarube.

In a heartfelt ceremony celebrating academic achievement, Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, shone a spotlight not only on the achievements of students but also on the vital support provided by families, educators and partnerships in the educational journeys.

Gwarube was speaking at the MTN breakfast today prior to the matric results that will be announced later today.

Gwarube’s keynote address urged learners to take pride in the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Gwarube says, “True dignity and happiness can be found in consistent effort and discipline, and that the journey itself holds as much value as the final achievement.”

Learners were encouraged to see this celebration as the start of a new journey and reminded of their continued importance to the country’s future.

“Success is not the absence of hardship but the refusal to be defined by it,” says Gwarube.

Minister Siviwe Gwarube took a moment to thank the amazing teachers who guided the NSC Class of 2025 to top marks!

Teachers are the quiet architects of excellence! THANK YOU!#thankyouteachers #govzaupdates #educationza #nsc2025 #dbenews #nsc pic.twitter.com/wfvrV7v2gb

— Dep. Basic Education (@DBE_SA) January 12, 2026

This morning, 12 January 2026, the Department of Basic Education (DBE), in partnership with MTN, honours the shining stars of the #ClassOf2025 at the Ministerial Breakfast in Randburg, Johannesburg. The event celebrates top achievers for their exceptional academic excellence and… pic.twitter.com/y5wMZaAHN4

— Dep. Basic Education (@DBE_SA) January 12, 2026