Hillside High School proudly shines the spotlight on one of its brightest academic stars following the release of the 2025 Eswatini Junior Certificate (JC) examination results. Among the many hardworking learners, one Form 3 student stood out remarkably, earning recognition as the 2nd top student in the entire country. Masimula Ngibo.

This exceptional achievement not only reflects personal dedication and discipline but also brings great pride to the Hillside High community. In this feature, we take a closer look at his journey, mindset, and advice for fellow learners.

Interview with Hillside’s Top Achiever

1. How did it feel being named one of the Top Form 3 Students of 2025?
Honestly, it felt surreal. When I saw my name, there was this massive wave of relief because it turned all those late nights and skipped sleep into something tangible. It’s a super proud moment for me.

2. What motivated you to work so hard that year?
I’ve always been competitive with myself. That year my goal was not just to “pass” but to see how I ranked compared to other students in other schools.

3. What is your daily study routine like?
I’m a big fan of the Pomodoro technique: 50 minutes deep focus and 10 minutes of relaxation and rewind. I do my hardest subjects right after school while my brain is still in work mode, then save the lighter stuff for the evening.

4. Which subject challenged you the most, and how did you overcome it?
I can’t say I really had a challenging subject as I really loved all my subjects equally and I guess they kinda liked me back. However, I would advise my peers to stop trying to memorize formulas and start asking why they work.

5. What was the biggest obstacle you faced on your journey?
Burnout. Around mid-year everything piles up and there’s so much work to do in so little time. I had to learn that taking a Friday night off to do absolutely nothing isn’t being lazy — it’s maintenance.

6. How do you stay disciplined and focused on your goals?
I utilized a study timetable and intrinsically motivated myself to follow it. Even if I don’t feel like studying, I tell myself I’ll do five minutes — usually once I start, the momentum carries me through.

7. Who has supported you the most academically or personally?
My mom was my backbone. She kept the coffee coming and didn’t pressure me about the final result — only the effort.

8. How do you balance schoolwork with other activities?
If something was not on my calendar, it doesn’t happen. I treat socialising with my friends with the same energy as my essays. It keeps me from feeling like a robot.

9. What advice would you give to other students who want to improve?
Stop reading your textbooks passively. Use active recall — close the book and try to explain the concept out loud. If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t know it yet. Also, avoid procrastinating; this is your future being placed on hold.

10. What are your goals for the future?
I want to keep this momentum going into Form 4 and, as my Deputy Headteacher Mr. Sibandze always says, “Hit the ground running.” Eventually, I plan to pursue AI in university because I believe it is a future .

A Proud Moment for Hillside High

Hillside High School extends heartfelt congratulations to this outstanding learner for flying the school flag so high on the national stage. His achievement is a powerful reminder that discipline, smart study strategies, and resilience truly pay off.

We thank him for representing the school with excellence and for inspiring fellow learners to aim higher. The Hillside community looks forward to seeing him continue to grow, lead by example, and reach even greater heights in the years ahead.

Well done Ngibo, and keep shining