Seluleko Masikane grew up in Shiyane, near Rorke’s Drift, in rural KwaZulu-Natal. From early in high school, he was drawn to Mathematics and Physical Sciences. These subjects challenged him, but they also sparked curiosity. He enjoyed understanding how problems worked and finding solutions, even when the work was demanding.
His matric year was not an easy one. Access to study materials was limited, and Seluleko often relied on borrowing textbooks and guides from classmates. During the year, both the English First Additional Language teacher and the Physical Sciences teacher left the school, creating gaps at a critical moment. It was during this period that KHULA Education played a key role, stepping in to support English teaching continuity while the school arranged intermittent support for Physical Sciences. The stability this provided allowed Seluleko to remain focused and continue progressing, despite the disruption around him.
“Mathematics was challenging, but I enjoyed understanding how things work and finding solutions. That curiosity pushed me to keep going, even when it wasn’t easy.”
Against this backdrop, Seluleko achieved something exceptional. He became one of the top achievers at Shiyane Secondary School, earning seven distinctions in his matric exams (the first learner at the school to do so in history). In a rural context where expectations are often shaped by constraint, his achievement stood out as a powerful statement of what is possible.
Seluleko is quick to acknowledge that he did not achieve this alone. He speaks with deep respect about the encouragement he received from his family and teachers. He also honours the sacrifices of his uncle and his late grandmother, who passed away shortly before his final exams, but whose support remained central to his motivation.
Looking ahead, Seluleko hopes to study a BSc in Actuarial and Financial Mathematics, building on his strong results in Mathematics and analytical thinking. If he is successful in securing a KHULA-supported scholarship following interviews in February, this support will help ease his transition from school into higher education. His ambitions extend beyond personal achievement. Seluleko is clear about wanting to give back to his community and to help ensure that future learners have access to better resources — including science and learning facilities that were unavailable during his own schooling.
“My goal is to study Electrical and Computer Engineering, build a career, and give back to my community, including helping my school get the resources future learners deserve.”
Seluleko’s journey reflects the importance of consistent, place-based educational support. In rural schools where disruption and under-resourcing are common, sustained intervention can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.
