The announcement was made during a special awards ceremony on the final day of the national camp held at Skukuza Camp, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga Province. The event brought together learners from all nine provinces, showcasing their research, creativity and passion for preserving South Africa's cultural and natural heritage, says the council.

In addition to the overall winner, three other schools received top honours for their outstanding performance, according to the council:

  • Second Place Winner: Clarkebury Agricultural School — Eastern Cape
  • Third Place Winner: New Hope Secondary School — Gauteng
  • Fourth Place Winner: Lephola Secondary School — Free State

"The enthusiasm, dedication and depth of knowledge demonstrated by these learners is truly inspiring," says Dr Thabo Manetsi, CEO of the NHC. "HESOP is not just a programme — it's a platform that builds a new generation of heritage custodians who will carry forward the stories and identity of our nation."

HESOP is an annual flagship initiative of the NHC aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation of South Africa's diverse heritage. Over the course of the week-long camp, which took place from Monday, 6 to Friday, 10 October 2025, learners engaged in orientation sessions, heritage excursions, research presentations and a cultural showcase, adds the council.

One of the highlights of the 2025 camp was the excursion to the Albasini Ruins, where participants explored the historical 19th-century trading post and learned about its significance in trade and cultural exchange, says the council.

The nine participating schools were winners of their provincial rounds and represented their provinces at the national camp. According to the council, they are:

  • New Hope Secondary School (Gauteng)
  • Desmond Mpilo Tutu Secondary School (Western Cape
  • Kimberley Technical High School (Northern Cape)
  • Risinga Secondary School (Limpopo)
  • Molebatsi High School (North West)
  • Mathubesizwe High School (KwaZulu-Natal)
  • Hlonipha Secondary School (Mpumalanga)
  • Clarkebury Agricultural School (Eastern Cape), and
  • Lephola Secondary School (Free State).

The NHC commends all learners and educators for their commitment to celebrating and preserving South Africa's shared heritage and extends its gratitude to its partners — DBE, SANParks and NYDA — for their support in making HESOP 2025 a success, concludes the council.

For more information, visit www.nationalgovernment.co.za. You can also follow The NHC on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor