New UWC first-year student, Anenceba Klaas (18), on the steps of the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) library building, his new home as a Biodiversity and Conservation student. Picture: Harriet Box

(Published - 28 January 2019)

Anenceba Klaas, 18, matriculated from Masibambisane High School in Delft. “I choose UWC based on its reputation, and it's closer to where I stay, which will make matters easier in terms of still having family support while I study. I’m grateful for the opportunity I have here at UWC,” says  Anenceba at orientation day, which started on campus on 28 January 2019.

Anenceba made the news when Western Cape Education MEC Debbie Schäfer visited his school in early January. Pupils were called up - and greeted with loud applause and tears - to receive their results.

When his mother Nondumiso Klaas heard he had received a bachelor pass, she jumped from her seat and ran to him with hands flailing in excitement. Anenceba barely grabbed his certificate when his father, Andile Klaas, gave him a big bear hug. When the video of their overwhelming reaction was shared online, it soon began trending.

Anenceba says, “I’ve paid visits to the campus already, before orientation started, and I’m already settling in nicely and feeling at home here.”

He is one of three siblings; he has a brother who is 22 and a younger brother who is nine-years- old. His father is a clerk at the City of Cape Town and his mother works as a domestic worker in the Bellville area.

“Education means a lot to our family. I’m the first one in my family to have been accepted at a university, and that explains why my parents were so happy,” says Anenceba. “My future plan here is to study further after I complete my first degree. I want to contribute towards research - I’ve always wanted to make my contribution towards mankind and I now have my chance,” he says.

According to his mother, Anenceba is a dedicated student. "He does everything without being asked. He pushes himself so hard and I’m sure he will make a success of his dream of studying further.”

Anenceba confirms as much, saying, “I believe in working really hard during the week, and I use weekends to spend time with friends and family. I believe in keeping that healthy balance.”