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On Wednesday, 14 August 2024, the North West Department of Education hosted the Provincial leg of the National Teachers Awards (NTA) in Mahikeng. While the event was a celebration of the province’s finest educators, the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati (RSM) District had a rather disappointing night, with none of its teachers securing a first-place finish in any of the teaching or leadership categories.

MEC Motsumi’s Address and Acknowledgment

MEC Motsumi, North West Province’s Education MEC, set a high bar for the education system by reaffirming the department’s ambitious goal of a 90% pass rate for 2024. In her speech, she also made an emotional tribute to Ms. Doreen Gaborone, who is retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service. The MEC was praised for her sterling leadership and was presented with a gift from the department, which she graciously passed on to Ms. Gaborone as a token of appreciation for her decades of service.

Awards Overview

Despite the anticipation and hope for success, the Dr. RSM District fell short in the competition. The district did not produce any first-place winners, though there were notable efforts that earned recognition:

– Grade R Teaching Award: Ms. L. Pako from Sekhing Primary secured the 4th position.

– Primary School Teaching Award: Ms. M.P. Sechogo from Floradene Primary achieved 3rd place.

– Excellence in Primary School Leadership: Ms. T. Moalahi from Sekhing Primary earned 2nd place.

– Excellence in Secondary Teaching: Mr. Tema from Huhudi Secondary placed 4th.

– Excellence in Secondary School Leadership: Ms. Snyman from Reivilo Secondary School took 3rd place.

– Excellence in Special Needs Teaching: Mr. T.G. Segaecho and M.M. Sebitloane both secured 4th place.

– Excellence in Special Needs Leadership: Ms. M. Jasen from Christiana School for the Blind earned 2nd place.

– Excellence in Mathematics GET: Mr. Seshuane from Thutoneo Primary achieved 3rd place.

– Excellence in Mathematics FET: Ms. Nchoe from Bodibe Secondary School earned 2nd place.

– Excellence in Natural Science Teaching: Ms. M.E. Mosesi from Thamaga Primary placed 4th.

– Excellence in ICT (Technology) Teaching: Mr. M. Rantabane from Thamagane Primary achieved 3rd place.

– Excellence in Teaching Life Skills: Mr. Moncho from Thamagane Primary earned 4th place.

– Lifetime Achievement Award: Ms. M.J. Gasebosigape placed 3rd.

Despite the commendable efforts, it was clear that the district faces challenges in reaching the top ranks. No nominees from Dr. RSM District schools were represented in the Physical Sciences Teaching category, underscoring the need for further support and development in this critical subject area.

A Call for Improvement

The results from the Provincial NTA Awards have highlighted the need for strategic interventions within the Dr. RSM District. As the province moves towards its 90% pass rate target, it is crucial for the district to identify areas of improvement and to support its educators in striving for excellence. The community and educational leaders must collaborate to ensure that Dr. RSM District does not continue to lag behind in these prestigious awards.

MEC Motsumi’s vision for the province, combined with the dedication of educators like those recognized at the NTAs, will be essential in driving the district forward. The hope remains that future awards will see the Dr. RSM District rise to the challenge and secure top honors.

-The VIP Editor in Chief

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