Education
Speech

Revolutionary Greetings to you all Comrades.

We take this opportunity to extend our profound gratitude and a heartfelt appreciation to the South African Democratic Teachers Union for recognizing our torch bearers and architects of our future- our teachers, the Pride of the Place of the Rising Sun. The unwavering dedication and commitment of our teachers remains the cornerstones upon which a stable learning and teaching environment flourishes.

Today, and in all the days of the academic year, we celebrate their triumphs, victories, tenacity and acknowledge their immense positive impact in shaping the future of our Province. Our teachers foster a stable and progressive learning environment which is the bedrock upon which a child's educational journey thrives.

They provide a sense of security, allowing learners to absorb knowledge and develop their skills with focus and confidence. They are the unsung heroes and heroines who meticulously cultivate this environment hence this celebration and appreciation. They create classrooms brimming with respect, clear expectations, and a supportive atmosphere.

Through their tireless efforts, distractions are minimized and the pursuit of knowledge takes centre stage at all times. Teachers inculcate a sense of well-being in their learners, addressing not only academic needs but also emotional and social concerns. By creating a safe space for open communication and building strong relationships with their learners, Mpumalanga's teachers ensure that every child feels valued and empowered to reach their desirable true potential.

The results are there for all to confirm that indeed, our children are nurtured by dedicated and caring teachers. We are incredibly proud to witness the commendable strides our learners are making in academic performance. These achievements are a confirmation of the tireless efforts and innovative approaches employed by our educators.

Mpumalanga's teachers go beyond simply delivering the curriculum, they ignite a passion for learning by incorporating engaging activities, fostering critical thinking skills, and encouraging intellectual curiosity. The influence of Mpumalanga's teachers transcends the realm of textbooks and examinations; they play a pivotal role in shaping the well-rounded development of our future generations. Our teachers are mentors, confidantes, and role models who inspire their learners to reach their full potential. They cultivate a sense of self-belief, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

The teachers we are recognizing today, equip our learners with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of life, fostering compassion, critical thinking, and the ability to collaborate effectively. We stand in deep appreciation for the unwavering dedication and commitment of Mpumalanga's teachers.

As we move forward, we urge you, the esteemed teachers of Mpumalanga, to continue to brighten the path for our communities by: 

  • Extending your patriotic assistance towards the successful elections of School Governing Bodies. 
  • Ensuring that the 2024 learner performance improvement plan is implemented without fail. 
  • Encouraging our learners to embrace the Mathematics, Science and Technology Subjects. 
  • Contributing your civic education towards the massive victory of our Mass Democratic Movement on the 29 May 2024. 

Your staunch commitment to our success remains an inspiration to us all. May you continue to ignite the actualization of the potential within each learner in our province shaping a brighter future not just for Mpumalanga, but for South Africa as a whole. Your dedication deserves not just words of appreciation but also continued support and investment. 

As Maria Montessori says: “We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe and are connected with each other to form one unity.” 

By working together, we will continue to empower our teachers and nurture a generation of learners poised to lead our Province and nation towards a brighter tomorrow. 

No one must be left behind. 

Viva SADTU, Viva Our Teachers. 

Ngiyabonga.

 

2024