Local principal wins global award

Dr Ngwako Stephen Sebopetsa, the principal of Rathaga Primary School has been named the winner of the Global Principals’ Award for excellent leadership acumen, winner’s spirit, significant work, and contribution in the field of education.

The award was presented to Dr Sebopetsa on June 21 through a live Facebook broadcast. Rathaga Primary School is in Rakwadu 1 Circuit, Mopani East District.

Dr. Sebopetsa participated in the 2012 National Teaching Awards (NTA) in the Primary School Leadership category and managed to obtain bronze at the provincial level.

Limpopo education spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene, said Sebopetsa participated in the NTA again in 2019 at the national competitions in the Lifetime Achievement category where he won the bronze prize.

“He was thereafter introduced to the Global Principals Awards, where his application was accepted after recommendations by the circuit manager and fellow principals,” she said.

The award-winning principal holds a D.Ed. (Education Management) degree with the University of Venda, and has received many awards in community involvement, leadership and management. She said he is also an author of a book titled “Conversation with myself” and articles used by academics and university students for research purposes.

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He started teaching in 1985 and was later promoted to principal in 1995.

Limpopo MEC for Department of Education, Polly Boshielo was thrilled at the announcement.

“We are elated by this excellence and Dr Sebopetsa’s achievement at this level. This is an affirmation and evidence that we have outstanding people within our ranks, who against all odds continue to strive for excellence. We applaud you for raising our flag this high. You are truly deserving of this award,” she said.

Dr Sebopetsa told the Herald that he is grateful and honoured to be acknowledged for his work.

“This is the greatest time in my life, I never thought it would come. I am very happy to have reached this milestone,” he said.

Growing up he looked up to his late father, Gilbert who was also a principal and his high school English teacher Mr Motsenoni.

He also acknowledges his lecturers from the University of Venda who groomed him.

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Dr Sebopetsa’s motto is: Hard work kills nobody.

“This motto has kept me going and has made me what I am today, even if I do something and I fail when I read the motto I become motivated,” he said. He said for a school to produce good marks the community must be involved.

“The school cannot operate on its own, it has to work in partnership with the community. My relationship with the community is excellent and I also make sure that the school operates within the means and aspirations of the community,” he said

The Global Principals’ Awards aim to actively reach out to all corners of the world to identify and recognise exceptional academic leaders who have made an outstanding contribution to their profession, demonstrated excellence in leading their schools, shown outstanding contribution to learners, and served the community through their leadership.