The Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching (KILT) is celebrating two local matriculants from Percy Mdladla High School and one from Knysna Secondary School, whose strong results reflect not only academic achievement, but years of sustained learning support and partnership.

Alongside their school studies, Lilitha Stuurman, Thumeka Siqoqo and Jade Hannie (KSS – pictured above) participated in KILT’s Vocational Focus Programme, which works in partnership with schools to support learners over several years, often well before matric. All three were recognised at the Knysna Mayor’s prize-giving for their excellent academic achievement.

Confidence, curiosity and perseverance

For KILT Vocational Focus programme lead Nonqaba Cekeshe, the results reflect the importance of consistency rather than last-minute intervention. Children in the programme are supported from Grade 11 through to their first year of university, where they are paired with mentors and assisted with the practical basics often required by first-year students. “They succeeded because they kept showing up, stayed curious, and were willing to persevere,” she said. “Those qualities mattered just as much as the marks in the end.”

Lilitha Stuurman (pictured above at the Mayor’s prize giving), who plans to pursue a Bachelor of Accounting degree, describes her experience with KILT as formative. “The programme’s emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals has strengthened my academic skills, but also equipped me with confidence and leadership abilities,” she said. “As I reflect on my matric year, I feel a strong sense of pride and accomplishment, and I look forward to the challenges ahead.”

Fellow learner Thumeka Siqoko (pictured above at the Mayor’s prize giving), speaks of the support she began receiving in Grade 11, which extended well beyond the classroom. “My journey with KILT has been nothing but wonderful and inspiring,” she said. “Through tutoring sessions and support, I was able to improve academically, socially and mentally.” Siqoqo achieved a distinction in Accounting and will go on to study at Rhodes University.

A reminder of what sustained partnership can achieve

Sandy Ueckermann, KILT MD, congratulated Stuurman, Siqoqo, and Hannie saying their achievements highlight the value of long-term, collaborative support. She explained that the organisation’s work is deliberately focused on strengthening educators as the foundation for leaner success, with much of KILT’s investment directed towards supporting teachers as role models and agents of change within their own school communities.

Ueckermann added that KILT’s locally driven, systematic approach, developed through years of close engagement with schools across Greater Knysna, has helped build trust and shift what is possible over time.

As these young women prepare for the next chapter of their education, their achievements stand as a reminder of what is possible when children, schools and community partners work together over the long term.