The Western Cape’s historic matric achievements have set a powerful benchmark, and now the spotlight shifts to the Class of 2026. As the province celebrates yet another record-breaking year, Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier says the challenge has been firmly laid before the next cohort of matric learners.
Speaking at a special awards ceremony hosting the country’s top achievers, Maynier paid tribute to two extraordinary young women who stood at the centre of the Western Cape’s matric celebrations. Their achievements, he said, are a reminder that excellence knows no limits, whether of circumstance, background or ability.
For the fifth consecutive year, the province produced the top matric candidate in the country.
Abigail Kok, a learner from York High School in George, was named South Africa’s top achiever, outperforming more than 746 000 matric candidates nationwide.
“Not only is she the top candidate in the Western Cape, she is the top candidate in the entire country. This is an outstanding achievement,” Maynier said.
Sharing the spotlight was Takunda Muchuweni from Jan Kriel School in Kuils River, who was recognised as the country’s top candidate with special needs. Her achievement drew a standing ovation from guests, educators and fellow learners.
“Takunda’s results show what is possible when talent is matched with determination and the right support,” Maynier added.
The achievements of these learners formed part of a historic year for the province, with the Class of 2025 delivering the highest matric pass rate and bachelor’s pass rate ever recorded in the Western Cape, continuing the momentum started by the Class of 2024.
“Once again, records have been broken. This class proved that last year was not an outlier and that excellence can be sustained,” Maynier said.
But it was the message to the Matric Class of 2026 that resonated most strongly.
“The challenge has been laid before you. We believe you can achieve even greater heights than the classes that have gone before you if you keep your head down, focus, and dedicate yourself throughout the year.”
