Limpopo MEC Visits Early Matrics

Limpopo Education MEC Ms Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya officially marked the start of the 2026 academic year on Wednesday with a motivational visit to Grade 12 learners at Elim Senior Secondary School in the Vhembe West Education District.

The visit formed part of the department’s engagement with the so-called “Early Birds” – matriculants who have voluntarily begun the school year ahead of the official provincial reopening. At Elim Senior Secondary, learning and teaching commenced on Monday, 5 January, a full week before schools formally reopen.

The school has a total enrolment of 2,319 learners for 2026, including 255 matric pupils preparing for their final year. The early start is a community-driven initiative led by School Governing Bodies and parents, aimed at giving learners a head start and strengthening academic performance in the crucial matric year.

This practice has become increasingly common across Limpopo, reflecting a collective commitment by communities to improve National Senior Certificate results. All schools in the province are expected to officially reopen next week, following the release of the 2025 matric examination results.

Addressing learners during the visit, MEC Lerule-Ramakhanya praised the initiative and encouraged the Class of 2026 to remain focused and disciplined.

“It is inspiring to see communities taking ownership of their children’s education,” she said. “This early start shows the dedication of teachers, parents and learners as they prepare for the final hurdle of their schooling journey.”

She expressed confidence that the current matric class would build on the achievements of previous years and continue to raise the standard of education in the province.

The visit underscored the Limpopo Department of Education’s support for grassroots initiatives that promote a culture of hard work, accountability and academic excellence.