UJ Societal Impact Project Drives Limpopo’s Record Matric Success
Hanyani Secondary School located outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo, was among the least performing schools in the country, with a 57% pass rate in 2023.
In 2024 the school achieved an impressive 92.1% – an increase of 35,1%.
This remarkable turnaround is credited the University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s transformative UJ for Societal Impact project.
The initiative, which dates back to 2014, addresses critical infrastructure needs in the remote villages of Gwakwani, Matatani, and Mbodi, situated between Thohoyandou and Musina.
The project focuses on delivering sustainable solutions in energy, water, connectivity, and education, directly contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This state-of-the-art learning facility at Hanyani Secondary School is equipped with computers, books and updated learning materials to engage learners and teachers.
The facility boasts a satellite for uninterrupted internet access and solar powered lights. Spearheaded by UJ’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE), this initiative has revolutionized learning and teaching in the region.
The school also recorded a 100% pass rate in Science and 84.6% in Mathematics, marking its best performance in history.
Principal Mr. Thifhelimbilu Ndou credited UJ’s interventions, including solar-powered lights, a learning and media center, and comprehensive teacher training, for the transformative impact on both learners and educators.
“This year, we achieved 92.1% compared to last year’s 57% pass rate. We are grateful to UJ for the interventions and assistance they have given gave to the school, the impact is evident in results,” said Principal, Mr Thifhelimbilu Ndou.
“We have really performed very well, and I can’t recall the school achieving more than this in its history. As the head of the school, I am excited like never before.”
“We have come so far from where we were before, and it is thanks to you. We have done so very well…this is good, this is precious, this is wonderful. We want to truly thank UJ for helping us. The improvement in the results has motivated the learners and the teachers. We are here because of you and for that we are grateful,” said Mr Ndou
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Located in a disadvantaged area with many child-headed households, the school previously faced high dropout rates and low motivation among students.
UJ’s initiative introduced innovative solutions to address these challenges.
Solar-powered lights enabled learners to study at night, while online resources provided access to past exam papers and application opportunities for higher education.
Teachers also benefited from access to computers for professional development.
The contributions included science lab equipment from the Faculty of Science, teacher training by the College of Business and Economics and the Faculty of Education, First Aid training from the Faculty of Health Sciences, a clothing drive by the Faculty of Humanities, and a bursary secured by the Faculty of Law.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Letlhokwa George Mpedi emphasized the importance of empowering marginalized communities through education, while Executive Dean Prof.
Mashao praised the initiative’s tangible impact in a remote area. The results have inspired learners, teachers, and the broader community, underscoring the power of education to drive meaningful change.