Amajuba District Deputy Mayor Cllr. Thembelihle Mthembu gave a message of support to the Emadlangeni Grade 12 Excellence Awards recipients on behalf of Cllr. UMntwana Ndabuko Zulu. "Congratulations to the Class of 2023, as they have really made us all proud! They have made history and left behind a challenge for the class of 2024.

"The end of Grade 12 is a significant milestone in the academic journey of all learners, and this signifies the point at which critical decisions are made relating to future career pathways, including entering the world of work or studying further at various higher education institutions. To our best performers, well done! You are destined to make it big; as long as you do not lose focus, the sky is the limit," said Cllr. Mthembu.

During his keynote speech, Cllr. Buthelezi expressed gratitude to all of the Emadlangeni Municipality's teachers and voiced concern about the Department of Education being the most overlooked section of government. "Educators encounter numerous challenges on their own, particularly in these rural parts of Emadlangeni. Since they are the most important members of our lives, I would like to urge each and every one of us to support our teachers. We want you to know, teachers, that you are not journeying alone. We, the municipality, are grateful for your hard work and efforts.

Buthelezi urged the students to look after their teachers and return their gratitude by helping the teachers who helped them succeed.

The top five learners under Emadlangeni Local Municipality were: Sanelile Asanda Zulu (uMzilikazi High School), Fisokuhle Majola (Ngcaka combined school), Olwethu Mbhele (uMlandomusha high school), Nonhlanhla Duma (Ndwakaza combined school), and Senamile Nxumalo (eNzimane high school).

The event was attended by councillors, learners, parents, teachers, principals,Amakhosi, Izinduna, dignitaries from the Department of Education, and municipal officials.