[HSC 2024] Awardees Recognized for Their Academic Excellence Based on Social Criteria and Merit

On Thursday, January 29, 2026, twenty-four students who excelled in the Cambridge Higher School Certificate (HSC) 2024 exams were honored during a reception at the State House in Réduit, where they received additional scholarships awarded based on merit and social criteria.

The ceremony brought together high-ranking officials, including President Dharam Gokhool, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, Vice President Robert Hungley, and Minister of Education and Human Resources Mahend Gungapersad.

President Gokhool congratulated the awardees for their academic excellence, perseverance, and determination, emphasizing that they stood out despite coming from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. He encouraged young Mauritians to strive for excellence both academically and personally, while upholding the values of compassion, community well-being, and social cohesion.

Addressing the broader context of educational equity, the president explained that the additional scholarship program was introduced in 2013 to promote inclusion, in line with the country’s policies on free education and public transport. These initiatives, he stated, demonstrate how combined abilities and opportunities can lead to significant contributions to national development.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam underscored the central role of education in socio-economic prosperity and long-term national development. He recalled the historic introduction of free education by Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam in 1977, which laid the foundations for an inclusive educational system in Mauritius, and highlighted the Equal Opportunities Act as a key measure ensuring fairness and access to education regardless of social background.

Referring to the Government Program for 2025-2029, which places youth at the heart of national development, Dr. Ramgoolam described young people as the driving force of the nation's future. He urged them to actively contribute to transforming Mauritius into a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous country.

Minister Gungapersad reiterated the government's commitment to support families and empower deserving students to achieve significant academic and professional goals. He urged the scholarship recipients to fully take advantage of the opportunities presented to them and to utilize their skills for the benefit of the nation.

The Cambridge HSC exams represent a crucial milestone in the Mauritian educational system, and the recognition of students from varied socio-economic backgrounds highlights the ongoing efforts of the government to ensure equitable access to educational advancement.