Top matrics from Diepsloot and Katlehong reflect on record-breaking 2025

The Matric Class of 2025 has recorded the highest pass rate in the country’s history, with just over 88% of candidates passing their final exams.

More than 700,000 learners wrote the exams, with 656,000 achieving a pass.

Announcing the results in Johannesburg on Monday, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube said the milestone reflects improvements across the schooling system and credited the results to the hard work of learners, teachers and parents

702’s John Perlman spoke to some of the top achievers who helped make the milestone possible, including standout performer Khomotso Meje from Ponogo Secondary School in Katlehong.

She achieved five distinctions, but says the results surprised her, particularly in subjects she hadn’t expected to do as well in.

"It's funny, those subjects that I didn't think I really put much effort into are the subjects I actually excelled in."

And she admits the exam process was nerve-racking.

"At one point, I almost fell apart. I can say a key takeaway from the experience is having a good environment.

Meje says consistency and a solid support structure played a key role in her success.

"The school, my mom, and my best friend played a big role in my life."

Fikile Masilela, who studied at Diepsloot Secondary School No. 3, achieved five distinctions.

She reflects on the discipline, support and determination that shaped her matric journey.

"My key allies were my teachers, especially my English teacher. Mostly my family, my mom and my dad, people who I really admire, people who really sacrificed their time so I could have a better future."

And as far as what the future holds?

"I'm hoping to be admitted to UJ (University of Johannesburg). I applied for criminology."

Meanwhile, Meje is planning to head to the Western Cape for her future studies.

"I applied to UWC, the Faculty of Health Sciences, nursing specifically."

Bright stars, indeed.

To listen to Meje and Masilela, use the audio player below: