Awards recognise academic excellence and reinforce Telkom’s commitment to developing the next generation of innovators, engineers and scientists
As South Africa seeks to build the skills needed for a competitive, knowledge-driven economy, investment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education remains critical to unlocking the country’s future potential.
Demonstrating its continued commitment to education and youth development, the Telkom Foundation has concluded its 2026 ProMaths Awards ceremonies, recognising 600 outstanding learners from its ProMaths centres in Ermelo, Volksrust and Bethlehem for their exceptional academic performance and personal growth.
Held from 13 to 15 July 2026, the awards ceremonies celebrated learner achievement across a range of categories, including National Senior Certificate distinctions in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, Top Academic Performers in Grades 9 to 11, and Most Improved Learners.
The ceremonies brought together learners, parents, educators, government representatives, programme partners, Telkom employees and community stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of young people who continue to excel despite various socio-economic challenges.
The awards not only recognised outstanding academic results but also highlighted the resilience, discipline and determination demonstrated by learners throughout their ProMaths journey.
Speaking at the ceremonies, Judy Vilakazi, Head of the Telkom Foundation, said the achievements reflected the transformative impact that targeted education interventions can have on young people’s futures and South Africa’s long-term development.
“Every learner we celebrate represents more than academic success. They represent South Africa’s future innovators, engineers, scientists and leaders. Through the ProMaths programme, we are investing in young people who will help solve tomorrow’s challenges and contribute meaningfully to our country’s economic growth.
“These awards recognise the learners’ hard work and determination while reaffirming our belief that education remains one of the most powerful catalysts for opportunity, inclusion and transformation.
“As Telkom, we are committed to creating meaningful impact beyond connectivity. By investing in STEM education, we are helping to develop the skills pipeline that South Africa needs to compete globally while creating opportunities for young people to realise their full potential.”
Mr J. Dhlamini, District Director at the Free State Department of Education, congratulated the learners and acknowledged the role played by schools, families and education partners in supporting learner achievement.
“The achievements we are celebrating are a source of pride not only for the learners and their schools, but for the whole district. These achievements demonstrate what is possible when talented and determined young people are supported by committed educators, families and education partners.
“By strengthening learner performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, programmes such as ProMaths are helping to expand access to tertiary education and future careers in STEM. We congratulate every award recipient and hope their success will inspire other learners across the district to pursue their goals with the same dedication and confidence.”
For many of the recipients, the awards represent the culmination of years of hard work, commitment and support through the ProMaths programme. Through supplementary Mathematics and Physical Sciences tuition, mentorship and structured learner support, ProMaths equips learners with the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to access tertiary education and pursue careers in high-demand STEM fields.
The programme reached a significant milestone in 2025 with the graduation of the first matric cohort from Telkom Foundation-funded ProMaths centres. Among the programme’s standout success stories is Luyanda Ndlozi from the Volksrust ProMaths Centre, who emerged as the top learner in Mpumalanga Province and the top-performing learner nationally among Quintile 1 schools.
Today, Luyanda is studying Mechatronics at the University of Cape Town (UCT) through a Telkom Foundation-funded bursary, demonstrating how sustained investment in education can create pathways from classroom achievement to tertiary study and future careers in critical STEM disciplines.
Luyanda’s success reflects the impact of the Telkom Foundation’s education strategy, which focuses on expanding access to quality STEM education for young people from previously disadvantaged communities and creating pathways to higher education and future careers. The programme has contributed to improved performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, helping more learners qualify for tertiary education and access opportunities in STEM-related fields.
The programme’s success reflects the collective commitment of educators, programme partners, government stakeholders and local communities whose support helps create environments in which learners can thrive.
As the 2026 ProMaths Awards series concludes, the Telkom Foundation remains committed to expanding access to quality STEM education and supporting more young people through programmes that develop the skills, capabilities and confidence needed in a digital future.
Through sustained investment in education, Telkom continues to play a meaningful role in empowering South Africa’s youth, strengthening the country’s future workforce and helping to build a more inclusive and prosperous society.
