Rivoni School for the Blind produces 100% pass rate and a top learner

The Rivoni School for the Blind achieved an impressive 100% pass rate in the 2025 senior exams for Grade 12 learners, despite very limited resources and poor facilities.

The principal, Ms Conny Mabaso, said compassion, patience, and love were key ingredients in fostering learners’ academic growth. She attributed the school’s success to the teamwork, commitment, and passion of the teachers and support staff.

“Love is everything, and when disabled learners know they are loved and appreciated, they tend to give their all and study even harder. Over the years, the experience I have gathered working with special-needs learners has taught me to always practice patience while teaching them, which I believe my colleagues also do. Most of the learners take their education seriously because they know it is vital for their future success and independence,” Mabaso said.

She thanked the educators for their cooperation and also acknowledged the school’s governing body and parents for their support, which contributed to the strong results.

The school is especially proud of producing the top learner in the provincial Special School category, Isaac Mokonyane. He was thrilled to be invited to a breakfast function hosted by the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, alongside the 30 top learners in South Africa on 12 January.

“I was extremely happy, and I thank God for his unconditional love. I didn’t expect to be a top learner. Matric was sometimes draining. I would get depressed, but I kept myself motivated. I used to start my day early so that I could be ahead; I guess I did catch the fattest worm,” Mokonyane said with a smile. He added that his good results came from dedication, drive, passion, and a hunger for success. “I also want to put it out there that just because you are disabled doesn’t mean you cannot succeed in something,” he said.

Mokonyane concluded with advice for other Grade 12s. “To this year’s matric class, my advice would be to work hard. Matric is not child’s play. They must sacrifice everything. Do not go to parties, and focus. If you put pressure on yourself now, you can have pleasure later,” he said.

Date:24 January 2026

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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