What does it take to be recognized as one of the best students in the country? At Stellenbosch University (SU), it takes more than just “good grades”—it takes a commitment to changing the future.
This week, at the prestigious Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), the university hosted the Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards. The event celebrated 37 extraordinary first-year students who represent the absolute pinnacle of South African academic talent.
The “90% Club”: By the Numbers
To put this achievement in perspective, the competition was incredibly fierce.
- 2,600+ students entered SU this year with an average of 80% or higher.
- 347 of those students had an average of 90% or higher.
- Only 37 were chosen for these top-tier awards.
The Investment in Excellence
Stellenbosch isn’t just praising these students; they are investing in them. The awards are split into two prestigious categories:
| Award Title | Value | Who Received It? |
| Vice-Chancellor’s Award | R100,000 | 15 students with averages between 95.33% and 98.17%. |
| Achievers Award | R75,000 | 22 students with 90%+ averages, including top talent from diverse school backgrounds (Quintiles 1-4). |
Meet the Trailblazers
These awards highlight that behind every high percentage is a person with a dream.
- The National Champion: Abigail Kok, the #1 matriculant in all of South Africa for 2025, is now a Matie! She’s tackling Data Science and says she’s loving the passion of her new professors.
- The Innovator: Khaya Mhlongo from Gauteng chose SU for its Mechatronics Engineering program. He did his research and decided that if he wanted to lead in engineering, he had to be here.
- The Healer: Oratile Malewa is pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor (MBChB). For her, the choice was simple: “To be the best, you’ve got to go to the best.”
It Takes a Village
For the first time, SU invited school principals and parents to join the celebration. This was a nod to the fact that academic stars don’t just appear—they are nurtured by dedicated teachers and supportive families.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Deresh Ramjugernath reminded the students that while their marks got them here, their impact is what will keep them there:
“Excellence is about far more than just marks… It is about how you grow when the work becomes demanding and the impact you will have on society.”
The Road Ahead
As the Class of 2026 settles into their labs and lecture halls, they aren’t just students; they are the future problem-solvers of Africa. From solving climate change to boosting the economy, the journey starts now.
