EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CELEBRATED OUTSTANDING TEACHERS AT 25TH PROVINCIAL ANNUAL TEACHING AWARDS

By: Siphosethu Zimba

The Eastern Cape Department of Education recently honoured exceptional educators at the 25th Provincial Annual Teaching Awards Ceremony in East London, under the theme "Empowering Educators, Strengthening Resilience, and Empowering Sustainability". The awards recognised educators from diverse districts and schools across the Province, celebrating their excellence and dedication to the teaching profession.

The awards ceremony featured approximately 28 categories, including subject-specific awards for teachers. Awardees received certificates, trophies, cash vouchers, tablets, laptops, and other prizes. The awards program has been remodelled and expanded to include subject-specific categories, providing more opportunities for educators to showcase their skills.

ECDoE MEC, Fundile Gade In his keynote address, highlighted the importance of the awards in motivating teachers and restoring the prestige of the education sector. "These awards act as a vital incentive for educators, encouraging their continued dedication to the profession and helping to restore the lost prestige of the education sector, which was once considered a 'golden profession'," said Gade.He added that the programme was initiated 25 years ago to address historical gaps in the schooling system and provide equitable opportunities for all educators.

Head of Department, Sharon Maasdorp congratulated the esteemed educators, acknowledging their exceptional commitment to teaching and learning. "Educators in this Province demonstrate exceptional commitment, often going above and beyond to support learners and drive academic excellence”, said Maasdorp.

Some of the award winners included Victor Loyiso Pakade from Ebenezer Majombozi High School who received the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement award. "This is my second time winning at the Provincial awards, but I was truly surprised by this significant achievement. It showcases the dedication of my team and the exceptional progress made by my school and it's a tremendous source of pride for me”, expressed Pakade.

Heather Witte, a teacher at Parklands Special School was recognised for Excellence in Special Needs Teaching. Witte attributed her achievement to her learners. “These children are unique, persistent, resilient, and determined, making them incredibly rewarding and awesome individuals to work with. They are the ones that made this achievement possible”, concluded Witte.