16 October 2007
Gauteng Education MEC Angie Motshekga has urged teachers to continue to keep
the doors of learning and culture open for young people who are entrusted to
them. Speaking during the 8th National Teaching Awards in Boksburg on Friday,
12 October 2007, Motshekga told teachers to continue the excellent work and
prove that teaching and learning could be an exciting adventure rather than a
tedious exercise. "Please continue to kindle imagination, inspire confidence,
stimulate the mind and build the self-esteem of your charges," said
Motshekga.
The National Teaching Awards were launched in 2000 to recognise and promote
excellence in teaching performance, to honour dedicated, creative and effective
teachers and encourage best practice in schools. These objectives echo the
principles and sentiments contained in the United Nations Educational and
Scientific Council (Unesco's) rallying call and slogan of 'Quality Teachers for
Quality Education.'
The awards have eight categories: Excellence in primary school teaching,
secondary school teaching, primary school leadership, secondary school
leadership, early childhood development, adult basic education and training,
inclusive education and special needs training and a life time achievement.
A veteran teacher, Setshedi of Isiphesethu LSEN School was awarded with the
lifetime achievement award. Other winners were: Mabitsala of Braamfischer
primary, Kruger of Hoërskool Kempton Park, Sebolela of Khensani Primary,
Tsotetsi of Tsepo Themba Secondary, Msiza of Reegle Primary, Tim Mongelo of
Alex Abet Centre and Tenyane of Thab-Vupe Leer School respectively.
MEC Motshekga said last week, on 5 October 2007, the department celebrated
World Teachers' Day. "This day is celebrated worldwide to raise awareness,
understanding and appreciation for the invaluable contribution that teachers
make towards the education and development of people across the globe. It
enables us as governments and the general public, to reflect on the role of
'the mother of all professions' and the need to improve teachers' working
conditions," she said.
She further noted that it was only through initiatives like the teachers'
awards that the education department could contribute towards developing
healthy, skilled and productive people and maximise the development of human
capital.
Issued by: Department of Education, Gauteng Provincial Government
16 October 2007
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautengonline.gov.za)
