Guided by the foundational global principles of Rotary International, the Rotary Club of uMhlanga (RCOU) proudly hosted its highly anticipated annual 4-Way Test Competition. The academic initiative rigorously challenged schools across the region in a vibrant celebration of core ethics, proactive leadership, written communication, and personal integrity.
The specialized event proved to be a resounding success, with local learners demonstrating a mature, nuanced understanding of Rotary’s internationally recognised ethical framework through a series of deeply thoughtful written submissions.
The famous 4-Way Test functions as a non-partisan moral compass, encouraging individuals to measure their daily thoughts, words, and actions against four critical benchmarks: truth, fairness, the cultivation of goodwill, and ultimate benefit to all parties involved. Speaking immediately after the conclusion of the adjudication process, RCOU President Cohan Arjoona highly praised the participating learners for their academic dedication, literary creativity, and clear commitment to future ethical leadership.
Arjoona—who is widely known across regional community and civic service circles for his deep passion for youth empowerment and educational development initiatives—warmly commended the pupils for the exceptionally high standard of entries submitted during this year’s cycle.
Arjoona said: “The 4-Way Test Competition continues to inspire young people to become ethical leaders and responsible citizens. We are incredibly proud of every learner who participated and congratulate the winners on their excellent performances. Events like these remind us of the importance of honesty, respect, and service in building stronger communities.”
The written competition effectively showcased the exceptional argumentative abilities, structured communication styles, and sharp critical thinking skills of the participating learners, while simultaneously promoting positive, constructive values among the youth of the greater uMhlanga community.
Following a rigorous blind-grading process by a panel of independent adjudicators, the top honors were officially announced. The standout winners of the 2026 competition were Lindani Nzama of Tongaat Secondary School, Mishka Govender of Crawford International College La Lucia, Tamlin Naicker of Trenance Park Secondary School, and Rose Royappen of Mountview Secondary School. In recognition of their outstanding literary efforts, analytical prose, and brave participation, each finalist was formally awarded commemorative certificates alongside merit-based cash prizes.
Attending members of the Rotary Club, local educators, proud parents, and community guests unanimously commended the entire student cohort for their absolute professionalism and infectious enthusiasm throughout the duration of the campaign.
During the formal prize-giving ceremony, special organizational recognition was also given to the club’s dedicated Youth Directors, Ronald Perumal and Glenda Finegan, for their tireless administrative work, logistical coordination, and successful drive in encouraging widespread school participation. Their collaborative behind-the-scenes efforts played an indispensable role in ensuring the event’s operational success and in creating a secure, empowering platform for learners to express their personal ideas and moral values with absolute confidence.
Arjoona concluded by reaffirming that the Rotary Club of uMhlanga remains unswervingly committed to empowering the next generation of South African thinkers through targeted educational, bursary, and leadership development initiatives that leave a lasting, positive impact within the broader community.
