Pretoria- Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has highly praised the 2015 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations overall top achiever, Andrew Tucker, for his "never-say-die" attitude.
Speaking on Wednesday at the launch of the Matric Second Chance Support Programme held in Johannesburg, the Minister described tucker as “one learner whose story is a blueprint of achieving greater heights Against All Odds.”
“… Tucker is an epitome of the "never-say-die" attitude,” she said.
Tucker, a learner at South African College High School in Cape Town, was diagnosed with the Guillain-Bare Syndrome (GBS) disease in February 2015.
The GBS is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks parts of the peripheral nervous system. It is a particularly debilitating disease, which can be fatal. There is no known cure for the disease nor does anyone know the actual cause of the disorder.
“Andrew's School Principal informed me that the poor Andrew was hospitalised and bedridden for almost five months in 2015. He only returned to school, full time, only in the 3rd term (July),” said the Minister, narrating Tucker’s sad story with a happy ending.
“However, upon his return to school, Andrew refused to be treated differently. Instead, he showed courage and determination, thus inspiring the entire school community to push the boundaries of expectation and strive for excellence.
“I am glad to repeat it here that Andrew is our Top Achiever for the Class of 2015. What an inspiring story! What a beautiful mind! What an achievement! Thank you Andrew for what you have done for the basic education sector.
“We wish you strength and best for your bright future. We are proud of you achievement. We glow in your light. You’re indeed a beacon of hope,” said the Minister.
Tucker also came first place in category top achiever in quintile 5 schools on Tuesday when the nation’s top achievers received awards.
He said he wants to dedicate his life to making a difference in the lives of others by studying Medicine at University of Cape Town.
He said he was grateful for the support he received from his school, the headmaster, staff who rallied behind him with invaluable support and encouragement throughout the year.-SAnews.gov.za
