The North West Department of Education scooped nine trophies and secured a notable third-place finish at the competitive 2026 ABC Motsepe SASCE National Championship, which was held recently.
This accomplishment places the province among the country’s top three performing provinces in school choral music.
The National Championships, held at Moreleta Park in Pretoria, Gauteng, represent the culmination of months of competition at district and provincial levels, bringing together outstanding young performers from across the country to celebrate excellence in music, culture, discipline and teamwork.
According to the Department: “This exceptional success also celebrates the passion and tireless work of the province’s talented pupils, school choir conductors and educators, whose dedication brought world-class youth music to the national stage.”
Additionally, the Department’s provincial spokesperson, Vuyo Mantshule, said that nine primary and secondary schools across the four districts of the North West participated in the competition, giving their peers a run for their money.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, expressed appreciation for the sterling work demonstrated by learners, choir conductors and educators, whose dedication, hard work and commitment contributed to the province’s remarkable achievement.
“I am truly proud of each one of you. You remained determined and gave your best until the very end. The 2026 Championships were highly competitive, with every province arriving well prepared. Despite the stiff competition, you rose to the occasion and represented the North West Province with distinction,” said MEC Motsumi.
She added: “This achievement demonstrates that we are moving in the right direction in many areas. Academically, our province continues to rank among the country’s top-performing provinces. Last year, the North West also emerged as one of the top provinces at the National Teaching Awards. These accomplishments affirm that our province is a formidable force to be reckoned with.”
The MEC encouraged all learners to enjoy the well-deserved winter school holidays as the province continues to celebrate this momentous success. “I wish everyone a safe journey home, and I look forward to welcoming you back when schools reopen,” she said.
The Department reiterated that the outstanding achievement reflects the province’s continued commitment to nurturing musical excellence and promoting arts and culture in schools.
