Rustenburg – Against all odds, Tshiamo Noge, who uses a wheelchair, has passed matric with three distinctions.
Noge, 18, of Tlamelang Special School in Gelukspan in Sannieshof, North West, scored distinctions in Business Studies, Life Orientation, and Setswana.
Noge, a resident of Agisanang in Sannieshof, is not one for excuses.
The tenacious genius says he won’t let his disability hinder his dreams.
The North West department of education said in addition to his distinctions, Noge attained level six in English and Accounting.
In a statement released by the North West department of education on Monday, Noge was quoted as saying he did not allow his disability to pull him down.
Noge also acknowledged the support he got from his family and teachers.
With wisdom beyond his age, Noge said: “I did not allow my disability to stop my dreams.
“I want to tell people that being disabled does not mean you are incapable. Reach for the sky.
“My family and teachers understood my weaknesses and helped me in everything. I would not be here without their support.”
The deputy principal at Tlamelang Special School Gerald Komape, described Noge as a humble learner from a supportive family.
Despite being an introvert, Noge’s intelligence shone through, especially in mathematics, as noted by his teacher, Gerald Komape.
North West Education MEC Viola Motsumi, congratulated Noge, emphasising that his achievement would motivate other young people facing challenges.
“Tshiamo is a motivation to many who think passing Grade 12 is impossible,” Motsumi said.
“He shows that dedication and commitment can overcome any obstacle.
“I wish this serves as a motivation to all learners who are controlled by fear to learn from Noge’s dedication.”
Noge said, that for now, he aimed to improve his mathematics results and pursue a commercial qualification.
