Lieutenant General (Dr/Advocate) Godfrey Lebeya, The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), has urged matriculants to avoid crime and seize the opportunities their matric certificates can unlock. Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, echoed this sentiment by highlighting the achievements of global icons like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Alan Turing to inspire students toward groundbreaking innovation. Both leaders shared these messages as special guests at the Nizamiye High School Matric Dinner held in a restaurant in Sandton.
Speaking at the Nizamiye Matric Dinner in Sandton, Hawks boss Lieutenant-General Lebeya shared valuable advice with the matriculants. He emphasized the importance of honesty, urging students to avoid crime as it has lasting consequences, including damaging their future job prospects. "Crime does not pay," he said. He also encouraged them to respect others, quoting the words of a popular group, "If you face a mirror smiling, it will smile back." Lebeya stressed the dangers of drugs, the need to pursue further education, and the importance of striving for excellence in all their endeavours.
Acknowledging the importance of education and civic engagement, Letsike drew inspiration from global innovators such as Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Alan Turing, reminding the students of the transformative power of youth-driven creativity and determination. “People like Alan Turing, who developed the Turing machine, and Steve Jobs, who co-founded Apple, dared to innovate in their mid-twenties. They remind us that youth is a prime time for groundbreaking achievements,” she said.
She emphasized the critical role young South Africans must play in advancing technology, science, and education, highlighting the opportunities for innovation in these fields. “We are in a technological era. Technology can be disruptive, but it can also be used positively. This is your time to stretch the boundaries of research and development for societal advancement,” she said.
In her speech, Letsike also underscored the importance of protecting democracy and demonstrating solidarity, both locally and globally. She urged the young audience to be steadfast in their support for just causes, such as the struggle for Palestine. “South Africa has shown solidarity, and you, as young people, must continue to stand for justice. This is your responsibility as citizens and social activists,” she noted.
The Deputy Minister encouraged the matriculants to exercise their right to vote, especially as many of them will become first-time voters in 2026. “Voting early establishes a lifelong habit of civic engagement. Participating in civic duties empowers you to bring forward new ideas and shape the aspirations of our nation,” she remarked.
In closing, Letsike congratulated the class of 2024 for their resilience and hard work, urging them to believe in themselves, embrace lifelong learning, and use their education as a tool to rewrite the narrative of South Africa and the world. Reflecting on the values of Nizamiye School, she praised the students for their commitment to intellectual and social development, saying, “In the true spirit of Nizamiye, you have demonstrated excellence in learning and governance.”
"Welcome to the Matric Dinner 2024," said Principal Huseyin Gencel, addressing the matriculants. "It is with deep pride and gratitude that I bid you farewell as you embark on your next journey. Your resilience and determination have led you to this point. There will be challenges ahead, but remember, make a difference in whatever you do, whether in your career, your family, or the lives of others."
He shared four key principles: "Know who you are, take responsibility for your life, determine your priorities, and persevere when life gets difficult. Success lies in your will to keep going."
“Nizamiye shaped us who we are today`Head Girl’s Aaliya Amod thanked her teachers. Nizamiye Head Boy Mehboob Ali Syed bid farewell to the class of 2024, celebrating their resilience and achievements. Quoting Rumi, he urged graduates to embrace the future with ambition and excitement. Thanking Nizamiye for their support, he presented a gift to the Deputy Principal on behalf of the graduating class.
Turkmen Terzi
The Star