ULLOVU ALUMNA RETURNS TO INSPIRE CLASS OF 2026

ULLOVU – Learners in the Class of 2026 at Ullovu Secondary School received motivation from a former learner during their Grade 12 Headstart programme on Wednesday, 7 January. The alumna, Sibongile Mtolo, a 2024 matriculant who is currently studying Medicine in North America, visited the school to encourage learners as they begin their final year of schooling.

During her engagement with the Grade 12 learners, Sibongile urged them to remain focused and avoid distractions, emphasising that their future is worth protecting. She encouraged learners to dream big, apply widely when the time comes – including to institutions abroad – and to take full advantage of opportunities presented to them without doubting their abilities.

She shared her own journey, explaining that she applied to study medicine even though she did not fully meet the minimum requirements, but believed in herself and took the chance. She expressed confidence in the current matric class, describing the Class of 2026 as a strong and capable group that has the potential to achieve positive results at the end of the year.

Sibongile is set to depart South Africa for North America on Saturday, but committed to returning to spend more time with the Class of 2026 when she is back in the country. Her visit formed part of the school’s efforts to expose learners to real-life success stories and to reinforce a culture of ambition, resilience and academic focus.

The session left learners encouraged as they begin a crucial academic year that will shape their post-school opportunities.