Learners across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape were recognised for their academic achievement, improvement and commitment to learning at the Engen Maths & Science Schools (EMSS) Year-End Awards, held across the four provinces. The EMSS programme supports Grades 10 to 12 learners in strengthening their performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Delivered by Engen in partnership with Raizcorp and Advantage Learn, the programme combines structured academic support, mentorship and blended learning to help learners build a strong foundation for further studies and future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
This year, EMSS reached 699 learners across 42 schools in four provinces. The Western Cape accounted for 269 learners across 10 schools, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 207 learners across 11 schools, Gauteng with 137 learners across 11 schools, and the Eastern Cape with 86 learners across 10 schools.
Each provincial event included a keynote address by Engen, certificate presentations for learners in Grades 10 to 12, an address by a Grade 12 Top Learner, and a special address by an EMSS alumnus. Learners were recognised in three categories: Top Learner, Most Improved Learner, and Most Engaged Learner.
The award recipients were:
Gauteng
Grade 10
Top Learner: Mthokozisi Buhle Manana
Most Improved Learner: Mthokozisi Buhle Manana
Most Engaged Learner: Privilege Lungelo Shange
Grade 11
Top Learner:
Tinyiko Mafieka
Most Improved Learner:
Tinyiko Mafieka
Most Engaged Learner:
Kopano Tsotetsi
Grade 12
Top Learner:
Palesa Msimanga
Most Improved Learner:
Sandile Zondi
Most Engaged Learner:
Lebohang Msibi
KwaZulu-Natal
Grade 10
Top Learner:
Naledi Ngcobo
Most Improved Learner:
Simtholile Inathi Trevis Ngubelanga
Most Engaged Learner:
Inathi Nxoko
Grade 11
Top Learner:
Aphile Aphelele Cele
Most Improved Learner:
Qhawe Camba
Most Engaged Learner:
Ntando Mbuyazi
Grade 12
Top Learner:
Migyle Naidoo
Most Improved Learner:
Unako Mbo
Most Engaged Learner:
Kiyaan Kardev
Eastern Cape
Grade 10
Top Learner:
Ntlakanipho Ngqengelele
Most Improved Learner:
Not awarded
Most Engaged Learner:
Ongamele Tan-Tan
Grade 11
Top Learner:
Lakisha Makhwelo
Most Improved Learner:
Emihle Mbobi
Most Engaged Learner:
Emihle Sullo
Grade 12
Top Learner:
Khanya Yeye
Most Improved Learner:
Anesipho Boyana
Most Engaged Learner:
Yandani Tan-Tan
Western Cape
Grade 10
Top Learner:
Endinako Mepeni
Most Improved Learner:
Amyoli Ngeni
Most Engaged Learner:
Entle Madaka
Grade 11
Top Learner:
Lelethu Memela
Most Improved Learner:
Sinalo Mbadamana
Most Engaged Learner:
Esona Mngqolo
Grade 12
Top Learner:
Chuma Benyana
Most Improved Learner:
Likho Qhele
Most Engaged Learner:
Chuma Benyana
Allon Raiz, founder and CEO of Raizcorp, said: “These learners have shown what can be achieved through consistent effort, the right support, and belief in their own potential. By recognising achievement, improvement and engagement, we celebrate not only results, but also the dedication and determination it takes to succeed. EMSS exists to give young people the foundation and confidence to pursue further studies and careers in STEM, and these learners are an encouraging example of that potential.”
“Investing in young people’s education is an investment in South Africa’s future. Through the EMSS programme, we aim to give learners the academic support, confidence and opportunities they need to realise their potential in mathematics and science. Our collaboration with Raizcorp strengthens this impact by recognising learners’ achievements and encouraging them to pursue further studies and careers in STEM fields. The dedication shown by this year’s learners is a reminder of what can be achieved when talent is supported, and opportunity is created,” said Olwethu Mdabula, CSI Manager at Engen.
Through its collaboration with Raizcorp and Advantage Learn, Engen continues to support young South Africans by strengthening their Mathematics and Physical Sciences capabilities. The programme offers structured learning resources, mentorship and digital learning opportunities, helping prepare learners for tertiary education and careers in fields where STEM skills are essential. The awards form part of EMSS’s broader commitment to recognising learner progress and encouraging a culture of academic excellence.
