Noordheuwel High School has announced that Rikus Kylander, the 18-year-old learner who went missing while snorkelling off the coast of Mozambique, achieved five distinctions in his 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations.
Kylander, from Krugersdorp in Gauteng, disappeared on 16 December 2025 while swimming at Ponta do Ouro Beach during a post-matric trip with friends.
He had travelled to Mozambique with about a dozen classmates to celebrate the end of their schooling when he failed to return from the water.
Search called off
Despite an intensive 22-day search operation involving rescue teams, volunteers, and family members conducting land, sea, and aerial searches along the coastline, the official search was called off last week.
The announcement of Kylander’s academic achievement on Wednesday morning was met with both pride and heartbreak from the school community.
“Our dear Rikus achieved five distinctions. What a beautiful achievement,” Noordheuwel High School said in a statement.
“We lift his parents and sister up in prayer during this difficult time. Our hearts are hurting with you. Nories would like to celebrate his life.”
The tribute was accompanied by a photograph of Kylander in his school uniform, serving as a poignant reminder of a promising future cut short.
In a further message, the school reflected on the loss felt by those who knew him.
“You were a son, you were a brother, you were a family member, you were a friend, you were a Norie. You were Rikus Kylander.”
Painful decision
Kylander disappeared while snorkelling on 18 December, shortly after 13:00.
What began as a celebratory holiday quickly turned into a desperate search, with his family travelling to Mozambique to assist local authorities and volunteers.
After weeks of searching, Kylander’s older sister, Clarise Kylander, confirmed last Friday that the family had made the painful decision to end formal search efforts.
“Everything that could be done has been done,” she said in an emotional public statement.
While official operations have ceased, community members and volunteers in the area are expected to remain watchful, offering continued informal support.
