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Eswatini learner tops SADC Region in IEB assessment
Eswatini learner tops SADC Region in IEB assessment
Education
Tuesday, 27 January 2026 by Khulile Thwala

 

MBABANE – A liSwati learner has broken academic barriers after emerging as the top-performing pupil in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Region in the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) examinations.

The Ministry of Education and Training has honoured Ncedile Lindelwe Sigwane after she obtained an outstanding seven A* grades and three As in her IEB examinations, making her one of the best-performing learners in the SADC Region. The learner was gifted a fully kitted laptop by the ministry.

SADC is a regional economic community comprising 16 member States, namely Angola, Botswana, Comoros, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Ncedile is also said to have received a Vice Chancellor’s Merit Award from a top university in South Africa.

Ncedile’s mother Nonhlanhla Sigwane described her daughter as a dedicated learner who had consistently delivered exceptional academic results throughout her schooling journey.

The former Enjabulweni Independent School pupil also served as a prefect and successfully balanced her leadership responsibilities with her academic commitments.

Minister for Education and Training Owen Nxumalo, together with Principal Secretary Nanikie Mnisi and senior ministry officials, honoured the high-achieving learner by presenting her with the laptop and other essential technological accessories as a token of appreciation.

“Today is not just about results; it is about what is possible when hard work, discipline and belief come together,” said Nxumalo.

“Achieving seven A* and three As is an extraordinary accomplishment. You have stood out among learners across the SADC Region, and your success will be remembered. Congratulations,” he added.

The minister highlighted that Ncedile’s academic journey demonstrated that great dreams are achievable through consistency, discipline and courage.

“I am especially inspired by the fact that Lindelwe was not only an excellent learner but also a leader. She balanced her academic work with her responsibilities as a prefect, showing that leadership and excellence can go hand in hand.

 “This is a powerful lesson for all learners: Success is built not only on talent, but on discipline and character,” he stated.

Nxumalo further encouraged Ncedile as she embarks on her studies in Actuarial Science and Finance, urging her to carry the same discipline and determination forward.

“Continue to represent the Kingdom of Eswatini with pride and be a strong role model for the girl child, demonstrating that excellence knows no limits. On behalf of His Majesty’s Government, I congratulate you and wish you every success. May this achievement be the foundation of even greater accomplishments,” he said.

Nonhlanhla expressed immense pride in her daughter’s academic success, acknowledging the support the family had received from Enjabulweni High School. She also shared that Ncedile’s father had passed away, yet her daughter persevered and exceeded all expectations.

*Full article available on Pressreader*

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