Six distinctions have set Rylands High School matriculant Nasiha Latief on a path to realising her dream of becoming a dentist.
Nasiha was one of the Engen Maths and Science School’s top performers for 2023. The school offers free extra classes to more than 1 500 pupils annually at ten centres across the country, and Nasiha got the best marks at the centre it runs at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). An awards ceremony was held there on Saturday.
The extra classes she attended on Saturdays from Grade 10 to matric played a key role in her academic performance and helped land her a spot at UWC to study dentistry this year, she said.
“The classes really helped me improve my grades. The teachers were excellent at explaining concepts and providing ample practice. EMSS also offered helpful resources for independent study. I had the chance to ask questions and get clarification whenever I needed it. Overall, the classes enhanced my understanding of the subjects and equipped me with the tools to excel in my exams.“
Nasiha also thanked her family for their support during her studies.
“I am truly grateful for their invaluable love and guidance in my life.”
Nasiha embraces the mantra, “If you believe you can, you’re halfway there.” Her advice to this year’s matrics is to “follow your passions, explore different paths, and believe in yourself. Embrace opportunities and chase your dreams“.
Using time wisely to balance studies with other responsibilities and activities was also important, she said.