In an inspiring show of solidarity and motivation, a delegation of University of Zululand (UNIZULU) student leaders visited Amangwe High School in Matshane, engaging learners in a powerful career guidance session that blended real-life stories, academic inspiration, and a deep sense of accountability to community.
The session was coordinated by Ms. Mashiyane, in collaboration with the school’s governing body and the University of Zululand SRC. It was spearheaded by Councillor Mthalane, who also serves as an active School Governing Body (SGB) member.
Among the visiting student leaders was Smangele Nsele, the Deputy Secretary of the UNIZULU SRC, and no stranger to the area. Originally from Ngwelezane, Smangele did her primary schooling at Kangikho Primary in Matshana, Ward 24, and later matriculated at Khombindlela High School. She previously visited Amangwe High in 2023 and continues to be a relatable and inspiring figure for learners in the region.
She was joined by Lungelo, the Chairperson of the Faculty of Science, along with the Chairperson of the Faculty of Education, the Social Officer, and other passionate student representatives.
In his opening remarks, Principal Mr. Mbuyazi welcomed the visitors with gratitude, emphasizing that Amangwe High has never been content with mere teaching and learning — the school is equally focused on providing programmes that enhance performance and character development.
“We are not going to take it lightly that some learners are not passing and act as if we don’t care,” he said firmly. “This is our school, and we fought so hard to build its name. Gone are the days when teachers would say, ‘I get paid whether you pass or not.’ Here at Amangwe, we care , and we will fight for the pride and future of our learners.”
Despite a challenging history, having once ranked 204 out of 208 schools in the King Cetshwayo District, Amangwe High has made a remarkable comeback. The school is now consistently ranked among the top 10 high-performing schools in the district, and has achieved 100% matric pass rates in both 2023 and 2024.
Academic statistics shared by Ms. Shozi revealed that in 2023:
• 87% of learners earned Bachelor passes
• 9% achieved Diplomas
• 4% received Higher Certificates
In 2024, the quality of results improved even further:
• 93% Bachelor passes
• 7% Diplomas
“These numbers helped to switch something on in our learners, especially as we prepare for the June exams,” noted one of the teachers. “This visit came at just the right time, it’s a moral booster for Term 2.”
UNIZULU student leaders didn’t just bring statistics, they brought relatable stories and practical advice.
Sanele Zulu from the Faculty of Education shared how negative peer influence caused him to fail Grade 9, but how he managed to turn his life around through dedication and mentorship. “Make use of the support structures around you,” he urged. “Your teachers are your biggest resource.”
Mr. Mchunu, representing the Faculty of Science, highlighted a major milestone: every engineering graduate from UNIZULU is currently employed.
Smangele Nsele spoke on the competitiveness of tertiary education, revealing that although UNIZULU received over 290,000 applications, only about 3,000 students are accepted. “This tells you that simply passing is not enough, you need quality results,” she said.
Thabani Ximba echoed that sentiment: “Yes, passing is important. But we must now talk about quality over quantity, let’s aim for higher marks, more distinctions, and more Bachelor passes.”
The UNIZULU student visit was more than a routine outreach programme, it was a homecoming of dreams, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next. As learners at Amangwe High School prepare for their upcoming exams, they do so with renewed motivation, inspired by peers who’ve walked the same dusty roads and made it through.
