Witbank High School rises from ‘under siege’ to national success

Emalahleni – Once written off as one of Emalahleni’s most troubled schools, Witbank High has defied the odds, rising from turmoil to national acclaim as the Best School in South Africa at the prestigious SABC Awards held about two weeks ago, on 11 October 2025.

At the heart of this transformation is Richard Oskin Usinga who has led the school since 2015 with the combination of discipline, compassion and an unwavering belief in young people’s potential. Under his guidance, Witbank High has evolved from a school plagued by absenteeism, drug abuse and learner unrest into a thriving centre of learning and community pride.

“When I arrived the school had only about 700 learners. There was no discipline, no demand for admissions and the community had lost faith. It was a school under siege,” recalls Usinga.

Back then, Witbank High was a place few wanted to be associated with. Learner protests and internal instability were regular occurrences, reflecting a school in crisis. Usinga and his small, determined team set out not only to raise academic standards but to restore the school’s spirit, culture and reputation.

A decade later, the results speak for themselves.

Witbank High now enrols over 1,800 learners, nine departmental heads and two deputy principals, and continues to attract a growing waiting list of prospective learners.

Discipline has been central to the school’s revival. Usinga implemented a zero tolerance towards bullying, substance abuse and disrespect, while emphasising pride in the school uniform and core values such as respect, accountability, honour and commitment.

Witbank High’s turnaround was not only about rules but also about direction. The school repositioned itself as a Maths, Science and Technology (MST) institution, ensuring learners are prepared for South Africa’s future workforce.

“We try as much as we can to have 70% of our learners taking Maths and Sciences, and 30% in the general stream,” says Usinga. “Our results for the past three years have been above 90% and we now enrol more than 150 learners in Mathematics and Sciences. South Africa needs those subjects to drive our economy.”

This focus is yielding results: graduates pursue medicine, engineering and other high-demand fields at top universities. “When you compare Witbank High to other schools, the numbers speak for themselves,” says Usinga.

The school revival extends beyond academics. Sport and cultural activities became tools for empowerment and unity. The school’s choir has achieved national champion status, while rugby, cricket and soccer teams are thriving.

Learners also compete in spelling bees and oral history competitions, competing nationally and demonstrating that excellence can emerge from anywhere — even a school once written off.

“The recognition from SABC puts us on the map,” says Usinga. “It shows our learners that hard work pays off, our teachers that their dedication matters, and our community that their support counts. It proves that transformation is possible.”

Looking ahead, Usinga aims to expand mentorship programmes, deepen parent partnerships, enhance mental health support and continue to develop Witbank High as an MST powerhouse.

As the school celebrates its national triumph, Usinga’s gratitude extends far beyond the school gates. Witbank High’s journey is a testament to what happens when leadership, vision and community unite.

“This moment,” Usinga said. “Witbank High is not just the best school today; it is a beacon of excellence for generations to come.”