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12 October 2026
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Story Onthatile Tikoe
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Photo Supplied
The 2026 Matriculant of the Year finalists pose for a group photograph at the University of the Free State’s (UFS) gala dinner at Monte Bello Estate in Bloemfontein. Representing schools from across South Africa, the finalists were recognised for their achievements in academics, leadership, sport, and culture.
For 14 of South Africa’s brightest young matriculants, months of hard work, leadership, and achievement culminated in one defining moment. As anticipation filled the Monte Bello Estate in Bloemfontein, the finalists of the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Matriculant of the Year competition waited to discover who would walk away with the prestigious title. The evening marked the 45th edition of the competition, bringing together exceptional young people from across the country to celebrate their achievements in academics, leadership, sport, and culture.
For more than four decades, the competition has provided a platform for young people to showcase achievements that extend beyond the classroom. Candidates are evaluated on their academic performance, leadership, sport, and cultural achievements, as well as exceptional accomplishments and community involvement. This year, the 78 entries achieved an average academic mark of 82%, while the top 14 finalists achieved an impressive 86% average.
A journey beyond academic achievement
Although the finalists were selected based on the achievements reflected in their entry forms, they arrived in Bloemfontein for the final round with zero points. During interviews on 5 and 6 October, they were challenged to demonstrate their leadership qualities, teamwork abilities, communication skills, and ability to express their opinions. The process gave the judges an opportunity to see the individuals behind the impressive achievements and to assess qualities that cannot always be measured through academic results alone.
For Emery Prinsloo van Zyl from Hoërskool Transvalia, the experience was both nerve-racking and rewarding. Reflecting on the two days of competition, she said the finalists could be proud of their efforts, adding that the competition motivated her to continue working hard. “Hard work at the end of the day really gets the recognition it deserves,” she said, capturing the spirit of an initiative that encourages young people to strive for excellence.
A new Matriculant of the Year
The evening reached its highlight with the announcement of Tamim Alam from Grey College High School in Bloemfontein as the 2026 Matriculant of the Year. “I feel absolutely amazing. I was in such a big shock. I did not expect it at all,” he said, expressing his gratitude for being part of a group of young people he described as ‘amazing finalists’.
As he prepares to join the UFS in 2027, Alam views the achievement as an important stepping stone towards his goal of becoming an actuary. He also looks forward to starting his university journey in his hometown and continuing the friendships formed during the competition. Addressing younger learners, he encouraged them to believe in themselves, saying, “If I – a prefect who was just a chill guy to you guys – if I can do it, so can you.”
Passing the torch
For Kiara Subramanian, the 2025 Matriculant of the Year, the gala dinner represented the passing of the title to a new generation. Reflecting on the finalists, she highlighted their talent and involvement in their schools and communities, noting the importance of recognising young people whose hard work often happens behind the scenes. Her advice to the finalists was to remain authentic and stay true to their values as they move forward.
The evening also recognised Jenna du Plessis from Oranje Girls High School as the recipient of the Most Spirited Personality Award, an accolade voted for by the finalists themselves. Francois Cilliers from Grey College received the award for Best Achievement in Sport, acknowledging his sporting accomplishments.
As the 45th edition concluded, the gala dinner celebrated not only Francois and Jenna’s achievements, but also the character, ambition, and potential of young people preparing to enter the next chapter of their lives. For Tamim Alam, it marked the beginning of his reign as the 2026 Matriculant of the Year and his journey as a future Kovsie.