By Charmaine Ndlela Ngazibini

Unathi Ntungwa, a 17-year-old matriculant from Isikhoba Nombewu Technical Science School in the Eastern Cape, has been honoured for achieving third position in the Technical Science category in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

The awards ceremony was held at the Mosaiek Theatre in Fairlands, Johannesburg.

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Speaking moments after being announced as the third-position learner, Ntungwa described the moment as an “unexpected turnout”, when talking to Inside Education, saying she was “shocked but also proud” with the result.  

She received 91% for Technical Sciences, which includes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For Technical Maths she scored 86%, for Engineering Graphics and Design 93%, for Civil Technology 92%, and for Life Orientation, 90%.

Ntungwa said she will be studying at the University of Johannesburg, where she will pursue a degree in Civil Engineering, driven by her passion for science and problem-solving.

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Family support played a crucial role in her success, she said.

Ntungwa said she is thankful to her parents, who prayed for her while she was writing her final exams. She also extended appreciation to those who believed in her, motivated her, and inspired her.

She thanked her teachers for providing past exam papers and helping learners with research.

INSIDE EDUCATION