Sunday Express

Teen prodigy wows all 

… 13-year-old sets new bar with impressive academic feat 

Letsatsi Selikoe 

IN a remarkable display of academic prowess, 13-year-old Thabelo Nteso, has achieved a remarkable feat, bagging the top student award in all 8 subjects at the Machabeng International College’s year-end award giving ceremony. 

The ceremony was held at the ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru on Thursday. 

The S1 (grade 8) student’s outstanding performance has left her peers and teachers in awe, and her name is now etched in the annals of the school’s history. 

At just 13 years old, Ms Nteso has already shown a level of academic maturity that is rare in her age group. 

Her achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. 

In a side interview with the?Sunday Express, Thabelo said she was overwhelmed by the achievement, and relieved that she had managed to maintain good grades throughout the year. 

“It hasn’t been easy,” she said, humbly acknowledging the challenges she faced. 

“I had to work really hard to stay focused and motivated, but I’m glad I was able to pull through.” 

Ms Nteso’s achievement was acknowledged by the top brass of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), who attended the event. ? 

Major Bokang Melato, the LDF’s Youth Development and Rehabilitation Coordinator, said success was not a one-time achievement but rather a continuous journey. 

“The road to success does not end here,” Major Melato said. 

“You must continue to strive for excellence in all aspects of your life. And to those who did not receive awards today, do not be discouraged. Prizes do not determine your intelligence or worth. The world is waiting for your contribution, and the only way forward is to love what you do and do it well.” 

Ms Nteso’s remarkable achievement serves as a source of inspiration for her fellow students and teachers alike. Her story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. 

As she continues her academic journey, she has set the high bar for herself. She told the?Sunday Express?that she hoped to remain consistent throughout high school.?