Free State educator Mpho Anatjie Mosala has been named the National Best Teacher at the 26th National Teaching Awards, recognising her commitment to literacy, African languages and the holistic development of learners.
Mosala, who teaches Grade 6 Sesotho Home Language at Letlotlo Naledi Primary School in Bothaville, has been teaching since 2015.
Her approach extends beyond teaching the curriculum, with a particular focus on developing learners’ communication, reading, writing, comprehension and critical-thinking skills.
In her submission for the awards, Mosala said her experience in the classroom had exposed her to the circumstances affecting learners beyond school, including vulnerable family situations and different levels of parental support.
“These experiences have strengthened my belief that an effective teacher must care for the well-being of learners in class and beyond,” she said.
She describes herself as an innovative, reflective and caring educator, who seeks to make a positive contribution to learners, colleagues, the school and the wider community.
Her recognition also highlights her commitment to promoting African languages.
“As a Sesotho Home Language teacher, I promote the value of African Languages while supporting learners from diverse backgrounds,” she said.
Her work extends beyond the classroom through school and community initiatives focused on promoting literacy and supporting vulnerable learners.
Mosala said she entered the National Best Teacher Award because of her passion for transforming learners’ lives through quality, inclusive and meaningful education.
“I believe that my journey as an educator reflects a consistent commitment to excellence,” she said.
For Mosala, the award is not only a personal achievement, but recognition of the learners, colleagues and school community that form part of her teaching journey.
“The National Best Teacher Award represents my commitment to teaching with purpose and serving with integrity.
“This recognition would celebrate my learners’ success, inspire my colleagues, affirm my school’s commitment to excellence, and encourage me to continue contributing to education not only in my community but in South Africa,” she said.
About the National Teaching Awards
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the 26th National Teaching Awards at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Benoni, Gauteng, on Thursday.
The awards were held under the theme: “Uniting for Excellence: Elevating Achievement, Empowering Educators to Shape South Africa’s Future.”
The National Teaching Awards are hosted annually by the Department of Basic Education to recognise and celebrate educators whose dedication, innovation and leadership strengthen teaching and learning across South Africa’s diverse schooling system.
The awards aim to focus public attention on the positive aspects of basic education, enhance the public image of the teaching profession, and recognise, appreciate and promote excellence in teaching performance.
Finalists from across the country were recognised in a range of categories, including Excellence in Grade R Teaching; Excellence in Primary School Teaching; Excellence in Primary School Leadership; Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET); Excellence in Secondary School Teaching; Excellence in Secondary School Leadership; the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award; and the National Best Teacher Award. – SAnews.gov.za
