The North West Department of Education is in celebratory mode as one of its learners Hardus Robertson won a gold medal at the National Cross Country Athletics held at Tom Naudé Secondary School in Limpopo on 30 September 2023.

Robertson, a 13-year-old boy doing Grade 7 at Mmamogwa Primary School is from Tlakgameng village near Ganyesa.

He was welcomed by amongst others MEC for Education in the North West Viola Motsumi, and a member of the North West Legislature Hon. Bitsa Lenkopane who led the programme.

Other attendees were officials from the Department of Social Development who joined hands with Education officials who upon hearing of Robertson’s disadvantaged background landed a hand by donating funds to bring a temporary relief of social distress to the family.

Motsumi used this opportunity to encourage learners at the school to pursue excellence in and out classroom.

“This win by Robertson is an example of pursuing excellence in what you do. We are proud of our hero who amongst learners of different schools across the country won a gold medal
I wish to encourage all of you that your background should be a stepping stone, not a barrier. I believe many learners from our province can be motivated by this win. Congratulations to Robertson on his achievement!

“I also extend my gratitude to my colleague Hon. Bitsa Lenkopane who led the programme for the day as well officials from Social who released their hearts and joined the Education department to help a family in need with a donation of R38 000. This is the partnership we wish to see every day to build a better communal society”, said Motsumi

Robertson started his sporting career as a Grade 1 learner in 2016 at the school as a goalkeeper in the school soccer team until he pursued a cross country team at the school in 2021.

For more information please contact

Mphata Molokwane
Media Liaison Officer (Spokesperson)
082 979 3638

Or

Elias Malindi
Acting Head of Communications
072 892 8399