For nine consecutive years, physical science teacher Lerato Ramabodu has achieved what many educators only dream of — a 100% matric pass rate in his subject. His remarkable achievement, sustained since 2017, has positioned him as one of South Africa’s most inspiring educators and a shining example of what dedication, discipline and teamwork can accomplish in the country’s education system.
Now 31 years old, Ramabodu was born and raised in Phomolong near Hennenman in the Free State. Like many young South Africans, his journey did not begin with a clear path into teaching. His childhood dream was to become a radiographer, but limited space at the University of the Free State forced him to rethink his future. What initially seemed like a setback soon turned into a life-changing opportunity.
“I told myself I would switch to teaching for just one year,” Ramabodu recalls. “But by my second year, I had fallen in love with teaching. I realised it was not a mistake — it was a calling.”
At just 21 years old, Ramabodu achieved his first 100% pass rate in physical science while teaching at Lekgulo Senior Secondary School in Phuthaditjhaba. That moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary streak of academic excellence. Since then, regardless of the school or community, his results have remained flawless.
In 2022, he was appointed head of department for physical science at Sekgutlong Secondary School in Monontsha, QwaQwa. A year later, he took on an even bigger responsibility when he was appointed deputy principal at Makwane Secondary School. Despite his management duties, Ramabodu chose to remain in the classroom.
“Though I’m in management, I still teach,” he said. “I want to groom other teachers so that they can become even better than me.”
His approach to teaching is rooted in discipline, commitment and compassion. Ramabodu begins his days with extra lessons as early as 6am, followed by afternoon classes that sometimes stretch late into the evening. During lunch breaks, he revisits difficult chapters with learners and reinforces concepts they already understand to ensure strong performance across the syllabus.
What truly sets him apart is his determination to leave no learner behind. When necessary, he visits pupils at their homes to offer additional support. He also works closely with parents, who often assist with transport arrangements when classes end late. On some occasions, Ramabodu even uses his own car to ensure learners get home safely.
Makwane Secondary School’s physical science pass rate stood at 81% in 2024. Within a year of Ramabodu taking over the subject, the figure climbed to a perfect 100% for the matric class of 2025.
Education minister Siviwe Gwarube praised the performance of no-fee schools like Makwane, highlighting the resilience of learners who study under difficult conditions. “When determination meets dedicated teaching and committed leadership, the results can be extraordinary,” she said.
Despite his personal success, Ramabodu remains humble. “This was never about me,” he said. “It was about teamwork — teachers, parents and learners working together.”
His story stands as a powerful reminder that passionate teaching can transform lives, even in the most challenging circumstances.
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