Mokoena is working on a scheme to help pupils who are struggling with their studies
He hit the 90s in most of his subjects in matric, reads Wikipedia pages as a hobby and is already making his way through the curriculum for his medical studies this year.
But 19-year-old Mpho Mokoena wants others to replicate his success, so in-between all this and a spot of DJing he tutors matric pupils.
The Mail & Guardian met him at the Alafang Secondary School in Katlehong, where 2015’s matriculants were milling around and collecting their grade 12 certificates.
Mokoena became a viral sensation on social media this week when it was erroneously reported that he scored 100% in seven subjects in 2015. Amazed, social media users sent praises his way, with some posting creative memes likening him to a James Bond-type character.
He actually matriculated in 2014 and attained 98% in geography, 96% in physics, 96% in life sciences, 95% in life orientation, 91% in mathematics, 89% in Sesotho and 82% in English.
He describes himself as conservative and shy, and his down-to-earth and quiet manner is apparent when he talks about plans to start a mentorship programme to help pupils struggling with their studies.
Mokoena, who is devising a pilot phase, said: “I can’t help a learner who’s already passing and, although I’m not a teacher, I can do something. Too many give up because they don’t have help or support.”
He already helps some with their homework by email correspondence and gives them studying tips in between his medical studies at the University of Cape Town.
With a shy smile, he says he successfully completed his first year and is looking forward to the new curriculum – so much so that he has already starting working on the material on his own. He just enjoys learning too much, he says.
His former life sciences teacher, Tholakele Jele, makes an unexpected appearance and beams when she sees him. She hugs him warmly.
She describes Mokoena as a hard worker who “always went above and beyond”, and says he was relentlessly eager to help other pupils and would often assume teaching roles in class.
“It was a pleasure teaching him. He’s a hard worker with a humble and gentle soul and no ego … We need more kids like him,” she says.
Somehow he manages to find spare time to produce a mix tape. He enjoys DJing and is working on a six-hour project.
He also has a keen interest in extreme sports.
“I just want to change lives … I’m not sure what I want to specialise in yet but I also want to go overseas and open a hospital when I return,” he says.