Khiran Bechoo is an academically gifted grade 9 pupil from Selborne College, who is set to represent SA on an international trip to visit prestigious universities and colleges in Ireland and Europe later this year.
Bechoo is one of many pupils who will get to travel overseas and visit Trinity College, Cambridge University and Queen Mary’s University in October. This opportunity was presented to pupils who proved themselves by achieving a 70% average for all four terms of grade 8 in 2024.
“I feel honoured to be acknowledged for my academic achievements and receiving this award. I was very excited to be selected to go on this educational tour.
“I’m looking forward to exploring England and Ireland as it is one of my dreams to visit England. I’m very interested in visiting Cambridge University. England and Ireland are also big in the sport of rugby, I will gain experience in my goals of becoming a professional rugby player. Any sort of assistance will help me towards the educational tour, it will most definitely boost my knowledge and give me the experience of a lifetime,” Bechoo said.
His parents, Lucinda Thompson and Sanjay Bechoo, have been particularly supportive of the young academic’s dreams.
“As parents, we were overwhelmed with excitement to see our son Khiran get recognised for his academic achievements. We always ensure and encourage Khiran to put all his efforts into his academics. We are very strict when it comes to his education.
“It’s a great opportunity for him to see how other countries function and what resources they have to equip their pupils. It is important for him to attend, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” his father said.
Some of the efforts Bechoo’s parents have done so far include a raffle initiative with a sheep as the main prize.
They also have food and cake sales to family and friends on various weekends.
“To our community at large, we plea for your support, no matter how small to make Khiran’s dream come true as he is a very hardworking pupil. He will surely make us proud. Your assistance can help him achieve more,” Thompson said.