MIDVAAL. – Florence Mabula’s star continues to shine bright. This is after the seasoned teacher and Midvaal Primary School Deputy Principal was honored at the recent National Teacher’s Awards (NTA) at provincial and national level respectively.
The NTA scheme is one of the ways in which the Department of Basic Education (DBE) acknowledges the extraordinary efforts made by excellent teachers.
Mabula garnered first place in Gauteng for Excellence in teaching Life Skills and second place at National level. Mabula has since expressed great honor and gratitude for the achievement. “I feel grateful that going above and beyond the call of duty paid off. Being honoured by the president fuels my passion for teaching.”
Reminiscing about her childhood, Mabula remembers how teaching has always been a part of her life.
“My passion for teaching stems from my childhood interests and hobbies. When we used to role play as children, I would always take up the role of teaching, that is how much I loved being a teacher. When I was in grade 3, I taught my great grandmother how to write her name. In the area I grew up in, older people were not literate so I used to teach them and assist them in reading and writing letters.”
Mabula states that teaching is not a destination but a journey. She explains that empathy and understanding of the learners needs come first.
“As teachers we need to create a safe space for our pupils. We need to understand that the impact we make in these children’s lives goes beyond the classroom.”
Mabula said the process of choosing winners in various categories is intricate and well researched. Mabula said she is grateful to the people who supported her and believed in her capabilities including her principal and her subject advisor and District Official.
In 2023, Mabula made waves by proudly representing South Africa in Delhi, India, where she received the Global Teacher’s Award at the esteemed Global Education Fest 2023.
Earlier on this year, Mabula attended the Global Education Summit in Dubai where she garnered two awards.
The Principal at Sicelo Primary School, Patricia Nkabinde congratulated Mabula on her achievements. She said that Mabula is diligent and hard-working.
“She is one of the most hard-working people I have ever come across. She is passionate about helping children to reach their potential. We are so proud of her.”
