VIMBAI CHITUKU
The gold laureate is awarded
to pupils in recognition of exceptional effort in academics, neatness and diligence, participation in extra-mural activities and strength of character. This is the highest award the school can bestow on a learner.
This year two gold laureates were handed to Kelebogile Manchu and Nthabiseng Kibinye. Khanya Sidinile received a silver laureate. Honours badges for academics went to Tinya Chuang and Yi-Xuan Wu. Twenty-eight attendance certificates were handed out to Grade 12 learners who had spent their entire school career at St Michael’s. The Work Cup was awarded to the Grade 9s.
Speech Night is an annual opportunity to give recognition to all St Michael’s learners who excelled during the year, whether in academics, sport or culture. This year’s 102nd Speech Night was unexpectedly held in the school chapel as a result of loadshedding at the arranged venue. The chapel was beautifully decorated with flowers, candles and trophies, all waiting to be handed over to deserving achievers.
The evening started off with an outstanding performance by the Chapel Choir conducted by Ms Joanie Prinsloo.
The guest speaker was the Head Girl of the year 2000, Ms Mlali Chondoma who is now a successful business woman. The topic of her speech was Fear and Ms Chondoma conveyed fresh and impactful perspectives that she had learnt through experience. ‘Fear is necessary to help us grow,’ she said.
Mrs Imelita van der Berg, acting principal, congratulated the learners on their performance throughout the year. She also delivered the annual principal’s report on the school’s achievements in 2022. Some of those include
a 42-year streak of 100% pass rate which is also a national record, as well as St Michael’s being named the only Platinum School of the Free State due to the 100% Bachelor’s pass that the Class of 2021 had obtained. Mrs Van der Berg also spoke on the importance of education and left everyone with an important question: ‘Would you fight for your education?’
Speech Night 2022 was a remarkable display of discipline and distinction from all St Michael’s learners. After a vote of thanks from the Head Girl, Nondumiso Masithela, Bishop Dintoe Letloenyane pronounced the benediction. This night was another reminder of the excellence of ‘Team SMS’
