Top achiever in KwaZulu-Natal, NOMFUNDO MTHEMBU, accused of using ‘muthi’ in her examinations! Do you believe in ‘Matric muthi’?


Monday, January 22, 2024
 – Nomfundo Mthembu, an 18-year-old matric pupil from Nkosi Ntulakabayise High School in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, exemplifies resilience and determination, proving that tenacity can overcome life’s challenges.

In a remarkable journey to success, Nomfundo not only faced the struggles of renting a backroom to be closer to school but also endured hurtful allegations from peers who accused her of using “muthi” to achieve academic excellence.

Despite these obstacles, Nomfundo’s relentless efforts secured her a coveted spot among the country’s top achievers, ranking second on KwaZulu-Natal’s list of high-performing matriculants.

Nomfundo’s daily routine reflected her commitment, as she convinced her parents to rent a backroom closer to school, utilizing every precious second that would otherwise be spent on travel to focus on her studies.


Top achiever Nomfundo Mthembu from Hluhluwe, KZN, has applied to study medicine at the University of Cape Town this year.

In an interview with Zimoja, Nomfundo expressed her disbelief and confidence in her achievement, saying, “I still can’t believe it, but I know and am confident that I am deserving because I put in the work and took responsibility for my own life.”

She recalled the heartbreak of facing mockery from fellow students who falsely believed she excelled academically due to the use of “muthi.” Nomfundo clarified that her success was the result of countless sleepless nights dedicated to studying.

Nomfundo credited her unwavering support system, consisting of her mother and uncle, for providing the strength to “ignore all the noise and focus on my future.”

With her sights set on a future in medicine, Nomfundo has applied to the University of Cape Town, marking the beginning of a promising chapter in her inspiring journey.

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