Statement by Donald Grant, Minister of Education in the Western Cape

This administration is determined to acknowledge achievement of all learners in the province who have done exceptionally well in the recent 2009 National Senior Certificate Examinations.

We are especially proud of the achievements of the top performing learners from schools in previously disadvantaged communities. These learners have had to overcome a number of barriers to excel in often very difficult circumstances, this in many ways makes their achievements the most noteworthy of all.

It is for this reason that Premier Zille, and myself, will be hosting a function at Leeuwenhof on Monday, the 25th of January 2010, to celebrate the achievements of top learners from disadvantaged schools.

In 2011 we will ensure that all learners are recognized at the same function. It is most unfortunate that this could not happen this year because of a delay in detailed data from the national Department of Education.

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or brcasey@pgwc.gov.za.

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za