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22 September 2008

The Gauteng Department of Education Member of Executive Council (MEC) Angie Motshekga has called on winners of the National Teachers Awards not to become complacent and to continue to inspire their colleagues to reach similar heights.

On Friday night (19 September 2008) educators from across the province put on their best to attend the National Teachers Awards held at Emperor's Palace.

The teaching awards, introduced in 2000, aim to recognise and promote excellence in teaching performance. They are also intended to honour dedicated, creative and effective teachers and to encourage best practices in schools.

"Today we say thank you to those unsung heroes and heroines, who not only impart knowledge and skills, but are also vital role models for our children."

"Please continue to kindle the imagination, to inspire confidence, to stimulate the mind and build the self esteem of our children," said Motshekga.

The MEC continued singing praises of educators, saying they had excelled even when faced with difficult circumstances.

"You have done well despite the challenges you face. (These are) challenges such as mastering the content and methodology of the new curriculum (and), managing un co-operative parents and children.

"We are saying to you please continue to keep the doors of learning open to the young people entrusted to you," said Motshega.

Borrowing a phrase from Pan Africanist WEB Du Bois, the MEC said children learn more from what you are than what you teach.

"If you work hard and are dedicated, the children will have a culture of hard work and dedication. If you are committed they will show commitment. But if you are a clown then the children will treat you as such," said Motshega.

And to celebrate Teacher's Day on 5 October 2008, the department has declared October Teacher's Month. According to the MEC, several events are lined up to celebrate Teacher's Month.

"We are making a call to all Gautengers to get in contact with their teachers. Call them to say thank you for having been of profound influence in your development," said Motshega.

The awards were broken into eight categories and the winners walked away with prizes courtesy of sponsors the Department of Education, Birchwood Hotel and Gold Reef Leisure Hotels. The prices range from laptops, desktops, trophies to hotel vouchers.

The overall winners are as follows:
* Excellence in Primary School Teaching (JM Modiga)
* Excellence in Primary School Leadership (HL Broodryk)
* Excellence in Early Childhood Development (DR Krige)
* Excellence in Inclusive Education and Special Needs Teaching (ME Redman)
* Excellence in Secondary School Teaching (A Rossouw)
* Excellence in Secondary School Leadership (TJ Lebina)
* Excellence in Adult Basic Education and Training (GK Mokwena)
* Lifetime Achievement Awards (HP Smith)

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
22 September 2008
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gpg.gov.za)