QWAQWA – Lerato Ramabodu is celebrating another remarkable achievement: a 100% pass rate in physical science for his 2025 matric class. This is not a one-off success; it's a consistent trend he has maintained since beginning his teaching career in 2017.
Ramabodu, now 31, was born in Phomolong, near Hennenman in the Free State. He initially had aspirations of becoming a radiographer, but limited spaces at the University of Free State led him down a different path. "I told myself to switch to teaching for a year, but by the second year I had fallen in love with teaching. I think teaching was a calling for me," he told Sowetan.
His journey in education began at Lekgulo Senior Secondary School in Phuthaditjhaba, where he first achieved the 100% pass rate at the young age of 22 in 2017. In 2022, he was appointed as the head of department for physical science at Sekgutlong Secondary School in Monontsha, QwaQwa. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as deputy principal at Makwane Secondary School last year. It was here that he once again steered his matric class to a perfect pass rate in physical science.
Even with his administrative responsibilities, Ramabodu remains committed to teaching. "Though I’m in management, I still teach because I want to groom other teachers so they can be better than me," he explained.
The significance of Ramabodu's achievement is further highlighted by the context in which he works. Makwane Secondary School is a no-fee-paying school, and Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube praised the performance of such schools during the announcement of the matric results on Monday. She noted that their success is "one of the most encouraging indicators of progress in the education system." Gwarube emphasised the challenges faced by students in these schools: "They study by candlelight. They share textbooks. They travel far. They keep going." She added, "And when that determination meets dedicated teaching, committed school leadership, and a district that supports its schools, the results can be extraordinary."
Makwane's overall pass rate in physical science in 2024 was 81%. However, with Ramabodu's direct involvement in teaching the subject for the 2025 matric class, the rate jumped to an impressive 100%.
Reflecting on this achievement, Ramabodu said: "It was a bit challenging because it was the first time I met the pupils, and in a short time we had to go an extra mile." He further added, "Sometimes I went to their homes to teach them to ensure no child was left behind." He was keen to emphasise the collaborative effort behind the success: "I’m very happy for the pupils and my colleagues. It was not about me but about teamwork. We work as a team."
So, what is the secret to Ramabodu's consistent success? He attributes it to a combination of factors: strong parental support, dedicated time, and hard work. "My strategy in every lesson includes ensuring no child is left behind. I always invest time, especially for those who are struggling," he said. He also implements targeted support during lunch breaks, focusing on areas where students struggle and reinforcing their understanding of easier topics.
Ramabodu's commitment extends beyond regular school hours. He starts extra classes at 6am during the week, and afternoon sessions often continue late into the night. "It is also because of the support parents have shown when I tell them we would have classes until late. They always make arrangements to ensure their kids arrive safely at home." He even uses his own vehicle to ensure students get home safely and maintains a strict stance against absenteeism.
Follow Us on Twitter
