The 2013 National Teaching Awards was dedicated to the teachers of our country, the selfless individuals that open the doors of knowledge to the future leaders, activists and custodians of our nation.
Along with the guest of honour, President Jacob Zuma and minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, acknowledged the unselfish contribution of the country’s best teachers.
Hundreds of special guests and award-winners shone in their presence.
Local South African musicians entertained the guests throughout the proceedings.
This year’s theme was “A call for quality learning and teaching”.
Talking at the ceremony, Zuma mentioned that the government places a high premium on education in South Africa, which makes the National Teaching Awards very important.
As in the 2009 State of the Nation Address, Zuma said that all should be in school, in class, on time, teaching and learning for at least seven hours a day.
“I am convinced that the teachers who excel in their work succeed, because they implement these core principles.”
Zuma also said that education is a ladder out of poverty for many of our children who come from poor households.
“We rely on our teachers to assist learners to use education to uplift themselves, to fulfill their dreams and achieve their full potential, for the benefit of the country.”
Zuma has a strong view that poverty must not prevent South African children from gaining an education.
In this regard, the government has instituted several measures.
More than eight million children from poor households are exempted from paying school fees.
About nine million children receive free meals at schools, many of whom come from homes where parents have no money to prepare lunch boxes for them.
Government pays R15 a day per child to subsidise children up to the age of four years from poor households, who attend crèches or early childhood development centres.
The numbers of children in Grade R classes have more than doubled in the past five years, and are now at around 800 000.
“We are now making plans to make Grade R compulsory, so that we prepare a solid foundation for our children,” said Zuma.
Zuma is aiming to improve the performance of children in maths and science, which are vital for the country’s economic-development and growth.
“Education is a societal issue and requires all sectors and communities to work together. Our country has a bright future, because there are teachers like you, who turn schools in productive centres of learning and achievement.
“The teachers are laying a strong foundation for economic-growth and prosperity in our country. Let us continue to work together to move our country forward,” Zuma concluded.
