SABC1 launches Higher Grade: New drama series inspires South African youth to embrace maths and science
Katlego Sekhu

SABC1 is launching a new drama series, Higher Grade. The series sets out to inspire young South Africans to embrace maths and science.
Set in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, the story unfolds at Themba Lakusasa Secondary School, a fictional township school facing a real-world dilemma. With low matric pass rates plaguing local schools, education officials push for maths and science to be phased out, arguing that doing so will inflate results. What follows is a gripping conflict between raising short-term pass rates and preserving subjects vital for the country’s future.
At the centre of the drama is Bra Sam, played by award-winning actor Mothusi Magano, one of Ekurhuleni’s most talented maths and science teachers. With the future of his subjects at stake, Bra Sam makes a daring promise: to raise the school’s maths pass rate from 25% to 65% in just one year. If he succeeds, he will not only save his job but also prove to the authorities that these subjects are worth fighting for.
The series doesn’t shy away from the uphill battle. As Bra Sam rallies his pupils, they face not only the pressures of academics but also personal struggles and external forces determined to undermine their success for personal gain. The show is both a tribute to resilience and a reflection of the systemic challenges that shape South African education.
Meet the Cast of Higher Grade
- Bra Sam – Mothusi Magano
- Muzi – Dumisani Mbebe
- Nandi – Londiwe Martiens
- Bra Don – Ronnie Nyakale
- Nkuli – Kamuhelo Mailula
- Senzo – Phineus Bullets
- Bontle – Asakhe Ngxonono
- Nokuzola – Sibulele Ntlebi
- Zakhele – Siluleko Thabede
- Amanda – Nokukhanya Nkosi
- Thembile – Upile Bongco
- Chucklas – Sfundo Maphumulo
- Gijima – Sandile Moloane
- Poppy – Khanyisile Radebe
- Cons Madondo – Lancelot Tshabalala
With its mix of social commentary, compelling storytelling, and a stellar cast, Higher Grade promises to spark important conversations about education, opportunity, and the role of teachers in shaping South Africa’s future.
Watch the trailer below:
Catch the premiere on Sunday, 7 September 2025, at 7:30PM on SABC1.
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