He said the province was not only vast geographically, but also home to young men and women whose practical actions in the examinations illustrated the qualitative and untapped potential to remain the hub of academic excellence.

“Accordingly, the doors of the department are open to all as we progress towards an 80 percent pass rate this year as desired by Education MEC Griezelda Cjiekella and the rest of team of senior managers,” said Mthukwane.

An optimistic Mthukwane said the province will see more and more African learners on the top 10 noting that these will be identified and nurtured in the earliest grades in partnership with society as they act as a mass frontline to turn underperforming and Dinaledi Schools into centers of excellence. - BuaNews