Nizamiye: Bridging Education and Empowering Communities

Widely recognised for its landmark architecture inspired by the historic Selimiye Mosque, the Nizamiye complex in Midrand has evolved into a multifaceted public space that extends beyond its religious origins.

Designed as an inclusive cultural and community hub, the complex promotes interfaith engagement and hosts facilities open to the broader public, including a primary healthcare clinic and a bazaar accessible to visitors from all backgrounds.

Alongside these community-focused initiatives, Nizamiye has also emerged as a notable centre of academic achievement. In the 2025 matric year, its affiliated schools recorded strong results, placing the institution among South Africa’s top-performing education providers.

While the complex is widely known as a place of worship offering a tranquil environment, its broader footprint reflects an emphasis on social cohesion, public access, and service delivery. The on-site clinic provides healthcare services to surrounding communities, while the bazaar and public spaces attract diverse visitors, reinforcing Nizamiye’s role as a shared civic space rather than a closed religious institution.

This broader institutional approach has been matched by consistent academic performance. During the 2025 matric examinations, learners from Nizamiye’s affiliated schools achieved results that highlighted sustained investment in education, discipline, and learner support.

For many learners, the matric year was marked by both challenge and growth.

Mohammed Yaseen, a matriculant from Nizamiye Midrand, described the year as an intense emotional journey. “Matric was truly the biggest mixture of emotions I have ever had,” he said, recalling periods of pressure during prelims alongside moments of relief and enjoyment during school breaks.

While acknowledging the importance of strong academic performance, Yaseen emphasised balance, encouraging future matriculants to manage stress carefully and to enjoy their final year of high school while remaining focused on their goals.

Reflecting on a longer educational journey, Riyad Bhabha, who attended Nizamiye from primary school through to matric, said his final year stood out despite numerous challenges.

While celebrating the joy of receiving his final results, he also recalled setbacks along the way. Bhabha said these experiences taught him to view difficulties as hurdles rather than obstacles. Sport, particularly taekwondo, played an important role in helping him cope, while structured routines and personal discipline helped him remain focused during periods of pressure. His advice to future learners included effective time management, perseverance and self-belief.

At Nizamiye Mayfair, academic success was similarly shaped by years of persistence. Maryam Ravat, who achieved seven distinctions, described her results as the culmination of a five-year journey that began when she entered the school as a Grade 8 learner in 2021.

She said her achievement reflected sustained effort rather than a single year’s performance. Ravat spoke openly about challenges such as demanding subjects, heavy workloads and moments of self-doubt. She credited her teachers for consistent academic support and guidance, while acknowledging her parents’ encouragement and sacrifices as central to her success.

Another high achiever, Romisaa Fadel of Nizamiye Mayfair, attained 10 distinctions. She described the outcome as “surreal,” noting that the demands of matric were made manageable through a strong support system.

Teachers provided guidance and motivation, while family and friends offered reassurance during more difficult periods. Fadel reflected on the importance of consistency and self-awareness, noting that academic outcomes should not be viewed as a measure of personal worth. She encouraged future learners to focus on growth rather than comparison and to use their achievements to contribute positively to society.

The achievements of the Class of 2025 were formally acknowledged by Nizamiye Midrand, which announced that the school had once again recorded a 100% matric pass rate. The institution commended learners, educators, and parents for their collective contribution, highlighting sustained academic support and community involvement as key factors behind the results.