Kriel – Two grade 12 learners, Winnie Makuwa and Sibongokuhle Khonjelwayo, from Kriel High School are advancing to the provincial stage of the History Oral Competition. This is after they excelled in the regional round held earlier this month.
Their achievement highlights the school’s growing academic strength and their personal commitment to research, critical thinking and public speaking.
History teacher Khumalo, who guided the duo, said the learners’ teamwork and persistence made all the difference. “As a teacher I have had the privilege of watching them grow in confidence,” said Khumalo. “They have shown commitment, creativity and a strong understanding of the topic they presented. They supported each other, critiqued and improved together and it showed in their final performance.”
The annual competition, hosted by the Department of Basic Education, challenges learners to research historical topics, build evidence-based arguments and present confidently before a panel of judges.
Lwazi Mkhize, a senior official from the Mpumalanga Department of Education (MDE), said: “When learners from our schools perform at regional competitions and advance to provincial level, it is a win for us all. History is not just facts and dates, it is about critical thinking, expression and connection to the world. We encourage all schools to integrate public speaking and research tasks into classroom learning, to groom learners who are ready for the demands of higher education and the workplace.”
Makuwa’s research focused on post‑apartheid transformation and youth identity, while Khonjelwayo explored the role of oral histories and community memory.
“Their advancement to the provincial round shows our school’s emphasis on scholarship, preparation and providing learners opportunities to grow,” said School Governing Body (SGB) Chairperson Nomsa Dlamini. “We will support them with materials, travel and presentation aids for the provincial round.”
Deputy Principal Tendai Mthembu said the duo’s success had inspired others. “When our learners reach such heights, the message to the rest of the school is clear: you belong, you can compete, you can shine. It builds morale and fosters academic ambition,” he said.
Both learners showed initiative beyond classroom expectations, holding peer study sessions, rehearsing after school and refining their presentation techniques. As they prepare for the provincial round, the pair continue to fine-tune their arguments and practise responding to judges’ questions.
Their success has already inspired other learners to take an interest in history and oratory.
With continued support from teachers, the SGB and the Department of Education, Makuwa and Khonjelwayo’s journey is just beginning. “Their voices are our future. When learners are given the tools and the platform to present ideas, the results can be extraordinary,” said Khumalo.
