From Dreams to Distinctions Rustenburg’s top achievers honoured
Rustenburg – The North West Province proudly celebrated its brightest minds and academic excellence during the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results announcement on Monday, 13 January 2025. Among South Africa’s 39 top matric achievers were two outstanding students from Rustenburg: Jurie Blignaut (18) of Hoërskool Rustenburg and Thobeka Langa (17) of JM Ntsime Secondary School.
Jurie Blignaut: A mathematical marvel
Meet Jurie Blignaut, an academic trailblazer whose dedication and passion for learning have propelled him to the top. His remarkable achievements in Mathematics and his impressive academic record make him a shining example of excellence in the North West Province. Jurie Blignaut achieved an exceptional average of 96.5%, earning 11 distinctions and the title of North West’s top Mathematics candidate. He will pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) at the University of Free State.
In an interview with Platinum Weekly, Jurie reflected on his journey: “The vacation was actually very stressful as I did not know what to expect on my report card. A person works hard, but you cannot determine what the outcome will be.”
To the matriculants of 2025, Jurie offered this advice: “It is very important to pay attention in class, to ask questions, and to be attentive. It is not easy, and it takes hard work. Do your best.”
Main photo: Top achiever Jurie Blignaut with North West Department of Education MEC Ntsetsao Viola Motsumi celebrating his success.
Thobeka Langa: A bright future in chemical engineering
“When I was younger, I dreamed of exploring the stars as an astronaut,” Thobeka Langa shared. “But as I grew, my love for chemistry revealed a new path — chemical engineering.” Thobeka Langa achieved an impressive average of 94.43%, with seven distinctions. She has been accepted to the University of Pretoria to study chemical engineering.
Sharing her story with Platinum Weekly, Thobeka encouraged the matriculants of 2025: “Just study; it will only take a year. Give time to your studies and avoid unnecessary distractions. Work together with your fellow classmates and teachers. The teachers are there for you; utilise them to achieve your goals.”
Reflecting on her challenges, she admitted, “The hardest paper for me was Physics, particularly the Chemistry part. I used the holidays to study, dedicating 12 hours each day.”
Congratulations! Both students have showcased the dedication, resilience, and hard work that epitomise academic excellence. The North West Department of Education and MEC Ntsetsao Viola Motsumi commended their achievements, which inspire future generations of learners.
