MEC Matome Chiloane celebrates teachers (Picture Supplied by Gauteng Department of Education)
To my favorite teacher, I’ve been reflecting on the impact you’ve had on my life, and I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude. You stood at the front of the classroom every day, bringing an energy that filled the room with possibility. You didn’t just share facts from textbooks; you opened my eyes to a world of critical thinking and exploration.
You taught me that learning goes far beyond those four walls. It lives in every question I dared to ask, every mistake I made, and every success we celebrated together. You didn’t just hand me knowledge; you gave me the tools to be curious, resilient, and confident in myself.
And I realise something: every single teacher in this room is my favourite teacher. It is a true honor and a source of immense pride to be here for the 24th Annual National Teaching Awards. This is a special occasion to celebrate the excellence, dedication, and transformative influence of our teachers. As Henry Adams once said, “The influence of a teacher can never be erased.”
We are shining a spotlight on educators whose hard work has significantly impacted our learners’ lives, continually raising the standard of education in Gauteng.
We are not only celebrating the remarkable achievements of our educators but also to reflect on the strength and resilience that defines our teaching community. I want to take this moment to acknowledge and single out Principal Selepe of Primrose primary, a truly inspiring leader among us: a principal who, after enduring a harrowing ordeal of being shot by a learner on school premises, displayed extraordinary courage and determination. Upon his recovery, he returned to his duties with an unwavering commitment to his learners and staff, embodying the very essence of dedication and service that we cherish in our educational schools.
Together, let us celebrate their unwavering spirit and commit to supporting one another as we strive to create safe, nurturing environments for our learners. We must do this because of our conviction that teachers are not merely facilitators of knowledge; they are the architects of the future, nurturing minds, fostering dreams, and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
Provincial winner for excellence in special needs teaching, Moloko Ramakoma (middle) with MEC Matome Chiloane (left) and Mzwandile Msimanga (right) from the Trevor Noah Foundation. (Picture Supplied by Gauteng Department of Education)
We celebrate you—the individuals who wake up every day determined to leave a lasting mark on the world through the lives you touch in your classrooms. When we speak of dedication, innovation, and passion, we are describing more than qualities. We are describing the heartbeat of every teacher. You embody these attributes, and in doing so, you create environments where curiosity thrives, and the love for learning is ignited.
Albert Einstein, was often labelled a slow learner as a child, was once dismissed by many of his teachers. Yet one saw the spark in him and encouraged his curiosity. That simple act of belief opened the door for Einstein to pursue his groundbreaking work, forever changing the world of science. Like Einstein, many of our learners face challenges. And like that one teacher who believed in him, you have the power to unlock their potential.
Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Born in rural Kenya, her early education was filled with obstacles. But it was her teachers who saw her drive and nurtured it, setting her on the path to becoming a global environmental leader. Her story reminds us of the transformative power a single teacher can have—not just on a learner, but on an entire world.
Bessie Head, one of South Africa’s most influential writers, who faced immense personal struggles, including exclusion and identity issues. It was in the classroom, under the guidance of supportive teachers, where her love for literature blossomed. Teachers like those in this room - are the ones who turn challenges into triumphs, helping learners rise above their circumstances.
We celebrate educators who have demonstrated a level of dedication that goes far beyond the call of duty. You have embraced innovation, finding new ways to engage learners and create environments where every child has the opportunity to succeed. Your passion is the fuel that keeps this transformative work alive, and it is a testament to the impact you have on the lives of your learners and the community at large.
Provincial winner for excellence in special needs leadership, Hendrik Opperman (middle) with MEC Matome Chiloane (left) and Mzwandile Msimanga (right). (Picture Supplied by Gauteng Department of Education)
In a world that is constantly changing, the role of teachers has never been more critical. I know you know this, but I would like to remind you – You are not only equipping learners with the knowledge they need to succeed academically, but you are also empowering them with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges. Through your guidance, learners are not just passing exams; they are learning resilience, empathy, and the value of perseverance. This event is a celebration of excellence, but it is also a reminder of the collective responsibility we all share in advancing education.
As Greek poet, Niko Kazantzakis, once wrote - "True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own."
So, my favourite teacher, thank you! For your innovation. For your dedication. For never giving up on the next Einstein, the next MEC, the next Wangari, or the next Chimamanda, the next Great!
I encourage you to continue going above and beyond the call of duty. You have the power to inspire others, not just in your classrooms but across borders. Together, let’s strive for an education system that stands as a shining example, one that other nations will look to for inspiration.
Keep shining your light, keep nurturing dreams, and keep transforming lives. The future is brighter because of you! You are the light that guides our children, the champions of their dreams, and the architects of a better tomorrow.
