Johannesburg - With six distinctions to his credit, 17-year-old aspirant actuarial scientist, Abiedo Shanduka, is looking forward to taking calculated risks at the University of Witwatersrand.
This after receiving a full bursary for being one of Gauteng's Class of 2011 top pupils. Shanduka, who scored a 100% pass in physics, was among top learners who were given provincial bursaries by Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane.
According to the Gauteng Provincial Government, Shanduka, who will be studying towards an actuarial science qualification, comes from Meadowlands Secondary School in Soweto, which was marred by disruptions last year. But thanks to his commitment and the intervention from the Gauteng Department of Education, he was able to defy the odds to emerge number one for his school.
Shanduka attributed his achievements to hard work and focus.
"There were lots of disruptions at our school last year but I decided to not let them get in my way. I studied hard and my dedication finally paid off," he said.
The humble teenager also credited the Secondary School Improvement Programme (SSIP), which was launched by the Department of Education in 2010, for his success.
The programme targets learners from underperforming high schools across the province and provides them with extra tuition support. This intervention has borne fruits as the province achieved 33 989 distinctions, with 6 109 distinctions from township schools.
Shanduka's jubilant father, Lloyd Mamali, said he was overwhelmed with joy over his son's achievements.
"I cannot begin to express my pleasure considering the problems that the school encountered last year. I am very happy he did not let obstacles derail him," he said.
Mamali encouraged other parents to be supportive of their kids and always be there for them during difficult times.
For his efforts, Shanduka received a laptop, a Blackberry cell phone and a printer which will assist him greatly with his studies.
Gauteng MEC for Education Barbara Creecy congratulated Shanduka and said the results were a true reflection of the co-operation, support and teamwork among learners, educators, department officials, parents, communities and stakeholders.
