By Palesa Mofoti picture sourced
As the province celebrated a remarkable 87.79% pass rate for the matric class of 2025 and the title of Most Improved Province, Galeshewe-based Retlameleng School for Learners with Physical Disabilities, Visual and Hearing Impaired, celebrated an outstanding 100% pass rate in the Special Needs category.
The Province witnessed the greatness and amazing potential of learners, through their sheer determination and motivation, they reaped the fruits of their hard labour. Although the majority of the learners are able-bodied. Three matriculants from Kimberley’s Special schools were the toast of the day as they were recognised alongside other top performers: Janie Kylie Tlotlo Maseng from Elizabeth Conradie, Tlotlo Immanuel Sizani and Clement Ncube, both from Retlameleng.
Principal Lebogang Diutlwileng, from Retlameleng, took pride in the two boys who put the school on the map, which can accommodate up to 200 learners from grade 1 to 12.
He said Retlameleng’s matric pass rate went from 0% in 2024 to 100% in 2025.
“I am proud to have led these two boys after the difficult and unpleasant result of 2024,” said Diutlwileng. “The journey with the class of 2025 was a rollercoaster; however, the pillars and ethos of the school pushed us to reach a 100% pass rate. The learners nonetheless were able to achieve these results as this was a collective effort, not only from the teacher, but parents and every person who played a role”, he continued.
Diutlwileng explained that, like many other schools, Retlameleng has its own problems, such as the absence of hostels which would reduce tardiness among learners, making learning time more effective. The fact that the curriculum is a bit fast-paced does not make things easy for learners with disabilities.
He also emphasised the importance of making sign language, Braille and any other communication methods used by the disabled ‘fashionable’ to reduce the stigma associated with disabled people and make them more comfortable in society.
Diutlwileng, who advocates for community involvement in schools, was permanently appointed as Principal after scooping the Special Needs Leadership Award during the 2023 National Teaching Awards. He got the opportunity to attend a Management Seminar in China during 2024 as part of his winnings.
Comments are closed.