MEC MASINA PAYS A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE CHAMPIONS OF EDUCATION

It was a day of celebration, recognition and heartfelt appreciation as the Mpumalanga Department of Education hosted the 2026 Provincial Instalment of the National Teaching Awards at the Nkangala District Municipality Banquet Hall in Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

Delivering the keynote address, MEC for Education, Ms Lindi Masina paid a special tribute to the more than 32 000 teachers across the Province, describing them as the champions who continue to shape lives, nurture potential and build the future of the Place of the Rising Sun, one learner at a time.

“Behind every successful learner there is a story, and behind many of those stories is a teacher who refused to give up,”

She acknowledged the resilience and commitment of teachers who despite flooding, damaged road infrastructure, bullying, gangsterism, violence and other social challenges, continued to show up for their learners and ensure that teaching and learning remained at the centre of their work.

“Today we want to say thank you. Siyabonga kakhulu. We love our teachers,”

The MEC also celebrated the province’s remarkable achievements beyond the classroom, recognising schools and educators who continue to provide learners with opportunities to excel in music, sport, culture and other areas of talent.

Among those celebrated were Grootboom Primary School, Njanji Primary School and Shongwe Boarding School, who were crowned National Champions at the ABC Motsepe South African School Choral Eisteddfod. Sibuyile Primary School, James Khosa Secondary School and Phillip Ndimande Secondary School were recognised as second runners-up.

The province’s sporting champions were also applauded, including Idlangamabala Primary School, Provincial Netball Ubuntu Champions; Hoërskool Nelspruit, National Netball Batho Champions; St Mark’s Combined School, Provincial Girls’ Football Champions; and Skapandonda Secondary School, Provincial Boys’ Football Champions.

A Province at work for all!

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