President Cyril Ramaphosa
By Lerato Mpembe
On October 5, 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed an audience of esteemed educators at the 24th National Teaching Awards, held at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni. These annual awards, hosted by the Department of Basic Education, celebrate excellence in teaching and honour the educators who go above and beyond to shape the future of South Africa’s youth.
Ramaphosa praised the teaching profession as a cornerstone of national development, likening teachers to “devoted gardeners” who nurture and cultivate the minds of learners across the nation. He drew from personal experience, recalling the profound impact his own teachers had on his life, not just academically but in fostering confidence and perseverance.
The President also acknowledged the challenges that many teachers face, especially in under-resourced schools where basic necessities like water and safe learning environments are often lacking. Despite these adversities, he noted, many teachers remain dedicated to their role in building the country’s future. Ramaphosa stressed the importance of narrowing the gap between well-resourced and under-resourced schools, emphasizing that much more work remains to be done.
Teaching Excellence Amidst Challenges
The National Teaching Awards, first established in 2000 by the late Minister of Education, Professor Kader Asmal, were created to acknowledge outstanding performance in education. This year, the awards were presented under the theme “Empowering Educators to Educate a South African Learner Fit for the 21st Century.” Categories included Excellence in Primary and Secondary Teaching, Leadership, Mathematics and Sciences, and Special Needs Education.
Ramaphosa highlighted the evolving role of teachers, who are now expected to be more than just instructors. In a country with stark inequalities, teachers often act as counsellors, disciplinarians, and even surrogate parents to their learners. The President called for continued investment in teacher support, resource provision, and skills development, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, which are critical for the country’s economic future.
Commitment to Education Reform
Ramaphosa also emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to reform the education system. He spoke of the recent passage of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, which aims to strengthen early learning foundations, improve accountability, and promote inclusivity in classrooms across South Africa. The President urged stakeholders to support the implementation of this legislation to ensure that all learners, regardless of their background, receive a high-quality education.
The President closed his remarks by expressing gratitude to the educators being honoured and to all teachers across the country. He recognized their resilience, dedication, and role in shaping future generations, particularly in the face of the country’s socio-economic challenges.
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