Every thriving education system begins with the people at the front of the classroom – the teachers. Those dedicated professionals who love nothing more than to spark curiosity, nurture potential and open doors to opportunity. Their role extends far beyond delivering lessons.

They inspire confidence, shape character, and prepare young people for the demands of the future. In South Africa, where schools face the dual pressures of limited resources and high expectations, supporting teachers is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the entire education system.

Recognising this, the FirstRand Foundation (FRF) places education at the centre of its social-investment agenda. From early childhood development through to capacity-building initiatives, the Foundation’s work reinforces the principle that quality education requires strong, well-supported educators

Honouring excellence in teaching

One of the ways the FRF brings this commitment to life is through its support of the National Teachers Awards. Now in their 24th year, the awards celebrate excellence in classrooms and leadership across the country, recognising educators whose impact goes beyond test scores to
transforming lives.

On 30 May 2025, the FRF hosted a celebratory send-off brunch at The Leonardo in Sandton to honour the six outstanding winners of the 2024 National Teaching Awards. The occasion served not only as recognition of their individual achievements but also as a reaffirmation of the Foundation’s dedication to building a strong and sustainable education system.

Konehali Gugushe, CEO of the FirstRand Foundation, spoke at the event about the FRF’s work and the invaluable role of teachers.

The brunch also included an address from the Department of Basic Education’s Director-General and featured a performance by the Mzansi Youth Choir. Certificates were handed over by Ms Gugushe and the government officials in attendance – a reminder of the importance of partnership between the public and private sectors in strengthening education outcomes.

The six teachers recognised by this year’s award reflect the breadth of talent and dedication to be found in South Africa’s classrooms:

• Mr Thapelo Jacob Mthimkhulu, Chris Hani Secondary School, North West, Winner of Excellence in Secondary School Teaching.
  A passionate educator and academic performance coach, Mr Mthimkhulu is known for his innovative use of digital tools and his leadership in raising learner achievement. He holds a B.Ed and Honours in Education from UNISA.

• Ms Rose Martha De Doncker, Peterson High School, Eastern Cape, Winner of Excellence in Secondary School Leadership.
  With over 35 years of experience and as the first female principal of her school in nearly a century, Ms De Doncker has transformed the learning environment in Schauderville through her dedication to mathematics teaching and leadership.

• Ms Koliwe Doris Mbatha, Rippon Primary School, KwaZulu-Natal, Winner of Excellence in Primary School Leadership.
  Principal of Rippon Primary for eight years, Ms Mbatha has led international exchange programmes and is a sought-after speaker on resilience and leadership in education.

• Mr Mboniseni Cyril Dlamini, Daniel Mzamo Special School, KwaZulu-Natal, Winner of Excellence in Special Needs Leadership.
  Under his guidance, the school has grown significantly in staff and learners, with a strong focus on inclusive education. Mr Dlamini, a former Humanities Head and music mentor, has also been nominated to represent South Africa in the Global Teacher Prize.

• Ms Motlatso Lucia Maake, Kgapane High School, Limpopo, Winner of Excellence in Teaching Physical Science.
  Ms Maake is a versatile science educator and ICT champion. She also coaches robotics and is pursuing a Master’s in Socio-Education, while mentoring learners in STEM subjects.

• Mr Sithembiso Eugene Mahlalela, Mjokwane Secondary School, Mpumalanga
  Winner of Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET).
  A mathematics and CAT specialist, Mr Mahlalela is a cluster leader and mentor who is fluent in four languages. He is also deeply involved in extracurricular activities, from choir to football.

Growing beyond borders

As part of their prize, the six teachers embarked on a fully funded international study tour to Denmark from 29 May to 8 June 2025. Supported by the FRF in partnership with the Department of Basic Education, Sifiso Group and Future Nations, the tour gave them the opportunity to immerse themselves in global best practices. The itinerary included classroom observations, collaborative workshops and academic sessions at Danish institutions such as Sofiendalskolen, Skansevejen School and Aalborg University.

Highlights included playful learning exercises, entrepreneurship projects and cultural exchanges designed to broaden perspectives and enrich teaching practice back home. The delegation also met with South Africa’s Ambassador to Denmark and engaged with Danish education leaders at a formal dinner hosted by the Aalborg Municipality.

Investing in educators is investing in futures

For the FirstRand Foundation, supporting initiatives like the National Teachers Awards is about more than merely giving recognition. It is about inspiring educators and equipping them for excellence through best practice exposure and resources that can amplify their already significant impact.

By celebrating excellence in teaching and enabling opportunities for growth, the Foundation is staying true to its vision of a financially inclusive society built on strong education, resilient communities, and empowered individuals.
"Teachers like these are shaping the learners who will one day shape the nation,” she said, “So, when we invest in them, we also invest in the ripple effect of knowledge, because every learner they inspire carries forward the promise of a stronger South Africa."