Johannesburg, 10 October 2024 – Telkom proudly joined the Department of Basic Education in celebrating the nation’s most exceptional educators at the 2024 National Teaching Awards (NTA) held on 05 October at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni.
For 24 years, the NTA has shone a spotlight on the dedication and passion of educators who are shaping young minds and building a brighter tomorrow. This year’s ceremony, themed “Empowering Educators to Educate a South African Learner Fit for the 21st Century: Strengthening Resilience, Building Sustainability”, highlighted the crucial role teachers play in shaping the future.
The event underscored the evolving landscape of education in the face of rapid technological advancements. Telkom recognises the need to equip learners with a unique blend of traditional subjects and essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
In a nation marked by stark inequalities, teachers frequently take on roles beyond education, serving as counsellors, disciplinarians, and even surrogate parents to their students. Speaking at the event, the President of South Africa emphasised the need for sustained investment in teacher support, resources, and skills development, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which are vital for the country’s economic growth.
“As we face a rapidly changing global economy, we believe that digital skills are a critical solution to addressing unemployment and preparing our youth for entrepreneurial opportunities and the jobs of tomorrow,” said Judy Vilakazi, Head of the Telkom Foundation.
Telkom remains committed to empowering educators through initiatives like the Telkom Foundation, which has been investing in education and upskilling South African youth since 1998.
“We know that investing in education is not just about solving one challenge—it requires a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of a learner’s journey. We are proud to stand with the educators who make this possible every day and believe that by working together, we can shape a future-ready generation that is prepared to propel South Africa forward,” added Vilakazi.
Telkom congratulates all the honourees at the 2024 National Teaching Awards and thanks them for their unwavering dedication to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Their commitment to shaping young minds is truly invaluable and serves as an inspiration to us all.