Sibusiso Thabete’s star to rise in Dubai for Best Teacher Award
'If you are determined to do something, the sky is the limit. Don’t let your past or circumstances define you.'
Newcastle’s School of Industries teacher, Sibusiso Thabete (33) will soon jet off to shine on the world stage as he participates in the Dubai International School Awards.
Nominated in multiple categories, including Best Teacher in Adult Education, Best Teaching and the Best Centre in the Community, he will go up against the best of the best teachers selected from 500 international schools.
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It is his first time travelling abroad and he is set to fly out on December 21.
“I never thought I’d see myself going overseas but it has always been my dream,” he said excitedly.
Should Sibusiso win, Newcastle will be placed on the world map in education. After entering and being nominated for the national Best Educator in Adult Education, he then took a chance and submitted a profile but never expected to be recognised.
“I was so happy when I got the news that I was going to Dubai. To be recognised internationally makes me extremely proud,” he beamed.
The competition is a four day conference running from December 21 to 24.
Sibusiso is excited to meet teachers from around the world and share ideas with them.
“I’d like to know what other teachers do differently in their countries and try to bring those systems back to South Africa. I will ensure that I network there and make a difference when I come back home,” he said passionately.
There is one hiccup…Sibusiso’s travelling costs are not covered. He needs to find the funds to pay for his travel, accommodation and plane tickets so he can attend the conference all of which amounts to a staggering R54 000.
He is looking for sponsorship. Interested parties should contact Sibusiso on 081 048 4352 or 073 394 2988.
How Sibusiso has excelled in the classroom
Sibusiso has accomplished more than most in the field of teaching. Soon after taking up a position at the School of Industries in 2007, he identified the need for an adult education centre and set about establishing the Ilungelolethu Community Learning Centre in 2010.
He is still the centre manager for adult classes.
“The centre caters for school drop-outs, people who have incomplete secondary schooling and for vocational learning such as basic plumbing and hospitality skills,” he explained.
The centre has grown exponentially from five lecturers to 23. He enjoys understanding the challenges and circumstances of his adult students.
“You get to know where they are coming from and why they could not complete their studies.”
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To add to his list of accomplishments and accolades, provincially and nationally, Sibusiso is also on the Amajuba District Academic Board in the Department of Higher Education and Training. Sibusiso has always enjoyed the support of his mother and siblings.
“My mother always says I live up to my name, which means ‘blessing’.”
Sibusiso matriculated from Ndonsa High School, oSizweni in 2005 and completed his studies through the University of South Africa (UNISA).
He has acquired the following qualifications:
Diploma in Adult Education; Advanced Diploma in Adult Education; Diploma in Tourism; Higher Certificate in Leadership Management; Honours Degree in Basic Education. Sibusiso’s motto is ‘wherever you are, you must make a difference’.
“If you are determined to do something, the sky is the limit. Don’t let your past or circumstances define you.”
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Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za
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