South Africa celebrated a record-breaking 88% national pass rate in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations – the highest in the country’s history.
READ | ActionSA argues SA’s REAL matric pass rate is only 57.7%
Helping boost that percentage was Abigail Kok from York High School in George, who emerged as the Top National Achiever for 2025.
“Right now, it feels completely surreal. I honestly did not expect this at all,” Kok said, beaming with excitement.
Academic brilliance
Kok’s achievement reflects not only academic brilliance but also sporting excellence and leadership.
She credited her success to discipline, careful planning, and balance, learning over time to manage her own high expectations.
“Striving for perfection in academics, sport and leadership caused stress. Over time I learnt that doing your best is enough, that saying ‘no’ is not failure, and that setbacks are stepping stones rather than the end of the journey,” she said.
Her matric year was carefully structured around a timetable, consistent study habits, and extracurricular commitments, including First Team hockey and squash.
She also served as head girl and vice-chairperson of the RCL, and played key roles in initiatives such as a cellphone-free school policy, online tutoring system, and her school’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Source of inspiration
Kok credited her primary school principal, Van Wyk Dames, as a lasting source of inspiration, describing him as a leader who demonstrated integrity, compassion, and respect for every learner.
Looking ahead, Kok has enrolled at Stellenbosch University to study Actuarial Science, with plans to transition into Data Science.
Stellenbosch University welcomed her achievement, posting on Facebook: “We are excited to welcome you to our community of excellence, Abigail – and congratulations on your outstanding results!”
To the class of 2026, Kok offered heartfelt advice.
“Work hard, try your best and don’t procrastinate. Very importantly, enjoy the year. It’s such a special year and your last chance to be a child. Laugh, enjoy it, and you’ve got this.”
Did you write matric in 2025?
Let us know if you’re happy with your results by clicking on the comment banner below …
