Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) top learner Morgan Karabo Ngwenya, an alumnus of Southview High School in Lenasia South, achieved an outstanding feat with 7 distinctions in matric.
Morgan’s outstanding results which include 95% for Mathematics and 81% for English and Science have earned him a place at North West University this year where he will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree with a focus on Computer Science and Mathematics.
His path to academic excellence was significantly influenced by his participation in the Zakariyya Park EMSS program, where he attended classes every Saturday from grade 10 to matric. Morgan attributes his success to EMSS, acknowledging the programme for providing diverse approaches to overcome academic challenges and the freedom to seek assistance whenever needed.
He said: “I was so appreciative of the commitment of all the teachers who really heighted my understanding of difficult concepts. I felt secure enough to ask any questions and felt supported and encouraged to reach my full potential.”
Morgan encourages the matric class of 2024 to “exercise patience and give their best efforts. The end result is what truly matters, regardless of the challenges faced along the journey.”
Hailing from Hospital Hills, Morgan said the most challenging aspect of his matric year was maintaining consistency and keeping up the momentum, a struggle he faced with determination. Guiding him through this journey was his mentor and sister, offering valuable advice and unwavering support.
Morgan’s dream extends beyond personal success; he aspires to graduate and become a trailblazer in his field. His overarching goal is to not only improve his family’s life but also contribute to the betterment of others in his community.
Engen’s CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula, emphasises EMSS’s focus on gateway subjects—mathematics, English, and science — to help address the country’s skills shortage and contribute to economic growth.
Mdabula explains that EMSS aims to unlock the potential of talented young learners, providing them with the resources and guidance needed to achieve academic excellence and pursue tertiary education.
Recent Department of Basic Education data indicates improvements in pass rates for mathematics and physical science. However, the limited number of learners achieving the essential 60% minimum mark in maths and science for university entrance to engineering, commerce and science degrees underscores the vital role played by EMSS in supporting young talent, especially in STEM subjects.
“EMSS is dedicated to transforming the lives of young learners, who often face severe socio-economic challenges, by bridging educational gaps, and empowering them to reach their full potential,” comments Mdabula.
As a company, Engen champions the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 – Quality Education, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
“Engen is keenly aware that access to quality education and gender equality is everybody’s business, and that it owes it to its employees, customers, and broader society to make every effort to drive positive change,” adds Mdabula.
“It is Engen’s ultimate reward to help set talented people up to pursue stimulating careers that won’t only benefit them personally, but also their families and the broader economy of South Africa.”
Engen is incredibly proud of all EMSS learners who completed matric in 2023.
Engen is hosting a series of awards ceremonies in February at EMSS centres across South Africa where the programme’s Grade 10-12 learners will be honoured, and the top achievers named.
Morgan’s story is a testament to the impact of EMSS in shaping young minds and contributing to South Africa’s growth.
As Morgan begins this exciting chapter at North West University, EMSS celebrates his success and wishes him continued excellence in his academic pursuits. Engen’s dedication to creating a diverse and vibrant workforce aligns with its goal of setting talented individuals on paths that benefit not only them but also their families and the broader economy
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