LMS Learner Excels at Gauteng Department of Education Class of 2024 Awards

Top 3 Independent School Learners Photo: GDE 

Learners from independent schools continue to set a high bar for matric results, and this year, Lenasia Muslim School (LMS) proudly contributed to that tradition of excellence. On Tuesday, 14 January 2025, LMS celebrated a remarkable achievement when learner Zakiya Amod was awarded 2nd place in the Top 3 Independent School category at the Gauteng Department of Education Class of 2024 Awards held at Vodaworld, Midrand. This recognition underscores not only Zakiya’s hard work and dedication but also the high academic standards maintained by independent schools across the province.

This achievement highlights the ongoing success of independent school learners, who continually rise to the challenge, demonstrating excellence in academics and inspiring others. The accomplishment of LMS is a testament to the exceptional standards of education fostered by independent schools and the collaborative efforts of students and educators.

At the same time, the achievements of Lenasia's public high schools also deserve recognition. These schools have consistently demonstrated resilience, hard work, and dedication, achieving outstanding results year after year. The commitment of students, teachers, and families has contributed significantly to the academic success of the Lenasia community, and their achievements continue to showcase the value of both independent and public education in shaping future leaders.

The **2024 Gauteng Department of Education Class Awards** celebrated the province’s academic excellence, honoring learners and schools across various categories. Exceptional students were recognized in subjects like Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, English, Life Sciences, Accounting, Physical Science, Mathematics Literacy, and Mathematics. Other accolades included awards for the Top 3 LSEN (Learners with Special Education Needs) Schools, Most Improved School (Harry Gwala Award), and Top Performing Township School and Learners.

The event also celebrated Gauteng’s overall pass rate of 88.4%, positioning the province as the third-highest performer in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. This outstanding achievement reflects the province's dedication to education and the collective efforts of families, teachers, and communities.

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chilone, praised the success, noting the rise of non-fee-paying schools and emphasizing that quality education is not determined solely by financial resources. He highlighted the resilience of students and the importance of commitment and support in ensuring student success. This challenges the belief that educational quality is dependent on funding, demonstrating that dedication and effort are fundamental to achieving excellence in all schools. 

As Gauteng continues to set a high standard for education, the future looks bright for learners across the province, ensuring continued academic success for years to come.

Congratulations to the Matric Class of 2024 in Lenasia

The matric class of 2024 from schools across Lenasia has reached a significant milestone, completing their high school journey with distinction and pride. This moment represents the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, late-night studying, and perseverance. 

Students from Lenasia’s high schools have faced numerous challenges throughout their academic careers, excelling in various areas, including academics, sports, and cultural activities. Their achievements reflect the strength and resilience of these young individuals, and this year’s matric results are a testament to their unwavering commitment. These successes bring pride to families, schools, and the broader community.

Al Aqsa School has once again showcased its academic excellence, with the 2024 matric class achieving an exceptional 100% pass rate. The school also recorded a remarkable 94% Bachelor’s pass rate, along with an impressive total of 223 distinctions, averaging 2.5 distinctions per learner. Among the top achievers, 25 students received "A" aggregates, with eight learners earning 7 distinctions each. These exceptional students include:

- 7 Distinctions: Safiya Muhammad, Aarifah Chopdat, Mahdiyyah Moolla, Eesa Adams, Faatimah Mahomed, Hamzah Seedat, A’ishah Dindar, and Luqmaan Pahad.

Al Aqsa School continues to set the standard for academic excellence, preparing its learners for bright futures and meaningful contributions to society.

Nuru Islam School also celebrated an outstanding achievement, attaining a 100% pass rate for the matric class of 2024. Principal Radhiya Laher expressed deep gratitude, stating: “We are truly thankful to the Almighty for granting us another successful year, enabling us to attain a 100% pass rate.” 

Top students from Nuru Islam School included:

- Assra Abdul Samad – A aggregate  

- Sazneen Patel – A aggregate  

- Marry Lerato Shatlane – B aggregate  

- Kaashifa Singh – B aggregate  

-Sabeeha Moosa – B aggregate  

These remarkable achievements reflect the hard work and commitment of both students and educators, setting the stage for continued success in the future. Congratulations once again to the Matric Class of 2024!

Lenasia Secondary School once again rises against all odds

Nirvana Secondary School Top 5 Learner: Image Supplied 

Lenasia Secondary School has once again solidified its position as a leader among public schools in the area, achieving an outstanding 98.3% pass rate for the Class of 2024. This marks yet another remarkable milestone in the school's 70-year legacy of academic excellence. Principal Madam Hawa Munshi praised both the students and the staff for their dedication, resilience, and hard work, despite challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, financial limitations, and media scrutiny. She emphasized that excellence is attainable through focus, perseverance, and unity, and thanked all supporters who contributed to the school's continued success.

Other schools in the region also demonstrated strong performances, with Shree Bharat Sharda Mandir (SBSM) achieving a 95.2% pass rate. Principal Jateen Nana highlighted their commitment to ensuring that every Grade 12 student qualifies for a Bachelor's Pass, preparing them for higher education. 

Nirvana Secondary School saw an improvement with an 85.9% pass rate, an increase from the previous year. Deputy Principal Madam Zaheera attributed the progress to the hard work of both teachers and students, along with support from parents and the School Governing Body. Lotus School of Excellence, with a pass rate of 87.2%, showed pride in their achievements despite not matching the previous year’s performance. Principal Mr. Bangs Naidoo expressed optimism for continued progress in 2025.

Top Achievers from Each School:

Lotus School of Excellence:

1. Ayeshan Puckree – 6 As  

2. Shinae Coopasamy – 3 As  

3. Derosha Naicker – 3 As  

4. McKayla Kandan – 2 As  

5. Sarah Owusu – 1 A  

Nirvana Secondary School:

1. Anil Mahek  

2. Naicker Yeshnie  

3. Malek Falak  

4. Warrasally Rafeeah  

5. Lekwato Mabel  

Lenasia Secondary School:

Full House (7 A’s):

1. Umar Vadi  

2. Atiyyah Valli  

3. Nazim Ali  

6 A’s:

1. Uwais Mohamed  

5 A’s:

1. Irshaad Adam  

2. Fatima Bint Hanif  

3. Ahmed Hareeha Mohamed Hafeji  

4. Suhail Ismail  

5. Humaira Khandiya  

6. Sabeeha Malek  

7. Mariy Am Mamun  

8. Raees Ebrahim Patel  

9. Madeeha Seedat  

4 A’s: 

1. Sahil Kotar  

2. Mikaeel Mia  

3. Tasmiya Salemane  

4. Alika Shaikjee  

5. Aarifah Soomar  

6. Ismail Mohamed Tagari  

Shree Bharat Sharda Mandir (SBSM):

1. Rahil Bageloo  

2. Ashill Seejarim  

3. Nikhil Basdeo  

4. Anjali Parbhoo  

5. Yasheen Chhana  

6. Khiyana Govin  

7. Jared Jackson

These exceptional results reflect the collective effort of students, teachers, and parents, and set a strong foundation for future academic and career successes in the region.

 Shree Bharat Sharda Mandir. Photo: Supplied

Photo of Lotus School of Excellence. Image Supplied

Lenasia High School continue rising

Lenasia high schools have continued to demonstrate impressive academic growth, as the Class of 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) students eagerly awaited their results. Many students received their final percentages before midnight, allowing them to celebrate their achievements and anticipate the official publication of results in the newspaper.

Lenasia’s schools have consistently performed well, with several institutions achieving remarkable pass rates. Redwood Academy, a standout institution, achieved a perfect 100% pass rate, alongside other schools such as Nur-Ul-Islam School, Al-Aqsa School, Lenasia Muslim School, and M.C. Kharbai School for the Deaf, all of which also boasted 100% pass rates.

Lenasia Secondary School posted an impressive 98.3% pass rate, followed by Lenz Public School with 95.3%, Shree Bharat Sharda Mandir at 95.2%, and Trinity Secondary School with 94.7%. Other schools like Topaz Secondary School (87.9%) and Lotus School of Excellence (87.2%) also showed strong performances.

Nirvana Secondary School and Azara Secondary School demonstrated solid results with 85.9% and 81.5%, respectively, while M.H. Joosub Technical School achieved a respectable 80.4% pass rate, highlighting the success of students in technical education.

On a broader scale, the Johannesburg South region maintained an impressive average pass rate of 87.7%, reflecting the overall commitment to quality education. These results stand as a testament to the dedication and hard work of students, teachers, and parents, setting a solid foundation for future academic and career successes.

One fatally wounded and two escape injury

A tragic shooting occurred on Hydrangea Avenue in Lenasia on Thursday evening, 9 January 2025, resulting in the death of a 35-year-old male. Two other individuals who were present at the scene narrowly escaped injury, with the bullets missing them by mere inches.

Lieutenant Colonel Mpho Tshetlhani, SAPS spokesperson, confirmed that a case of murder and attempted murder has been opened at the Lenasia Police Station, though no arrests have been made as investigations continue.

The police are urging the community to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. Tips can be provided anonymously by calling the crime stop number at 0860010111 or using the MySAPSApp.

Waterworks residents frustrated with lack of police visibility

Residents of Waterworks, located behind the Military Base in Lenasia, are raising concerns over the lack of police presence in their area. This community, spanning both Ward 10 in Johannesburg and Ward 17 in Mogale City, has expressed frustration about insufficient law enforcement, which they believe compromises their safety. Despite several requests for increased police attention, they feel neglected.

On January 15, 2025, a local resident reported a robbery at a Pakistani-owned shop at 2 pm. The robber, armed with a gun, stole an undisclosed amount of money before fleeing in a metallic gold VW Polo with registration number HV73FYGP. The resident, who chose to remain anonymous, explained that they did not report the incident to the police due to a lack of trust in law enforcement, citing frequent patrols in Lenasia but almost no police presence in Waterworks.

The resident further claimed that when they attempted to report the robbery, the police refused to open a case, citing the shop owner's failure to comply with regulations.

In response to the community's concerns, Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi encouraged residents to formally open cases to facilitate proper investigations. She also provided the Gauteng Service Complaints number for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), 082 442 2000, for complaints related to police service or misconduct.

Pulsate Emergency Services and Nkosi VIP Protection part of the Gauteng E Panic App

Pulsate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Nkosi VIP Protection, both located in Lenasia, are key partners in the Gauteng E Panic App initiative. This app provides residents with instant access to vital emergency services, including medical, fire, and police assistance. By enabling users to rapidly connect with the appropriate services, the app ensures quick and effective responses during emergencies, playing a vital role in enhancing safety across the Gauteng region.

Launched in 2023, the Gauteng E Panic App was created to address the province’s ongoing struggle with high crime rates. It offers a streamlined and effective way for residents to alert authorities in times of crisis, improving emergency response times and boosting the provincial government's efforts to enhance public safety.

Key Features of the E-Panic App:

- Immediate Assistance: The app allows users to immediately alert emergency medical services.

- No Medical Aid Required: Patients are transported to nearby medical facilities, whether public or private, regardless of whether they have medical aid.

The app features real-time location tracking and direct communication with emergency responders, ensuring that help is dispatched promptly and efficiently. This is part of a broader strategy to leverage technology for improving public safety, particularly in areas most affected by crime.

The e-Panic Button Rollout provides numerous benefits:

- It enhances personal security, allowing discreet calls for help.

- It reduces response times by instantly notifying emergency services.

- It provides greater peace of mind to citizens.

- It improves communication between the public and responders, ensuring that emergency teams receive accurate information for effective intervention.

- It fosters community engagement and a collective sense of responsibility for safety.

As part of a pilot project, the Gauteng e-Gov Department is testing the app with vulnerable groups, such as women and individuals with disabilities, to further enhance community safety and resilience.

How to Download and Register the App:

- For Android: 

  [Download from Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=za.gov.gautengPanicButton_new&hl=en_ZA)

  

- **For iOS:**  

  [Download from the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/za/app/gauteng-e-panic-button/id6479893269)

To Register:

1. Open the app and click on Login

2. Enter your mobile number to receive an OTP (One-Time Password).

3. Follow the instructions to complete the registration process.

By integrating modern technology and rapid-response systems, the Gauteng E Panic App plays a crucial role in combating crime and improving public safety in Gauteng.