Kgapane teacher wins national teaching award

TZANEEN – A young and brilliant teacher at Kgapane High School was named the best physical science teacher in the country.

Lucia Maake received the award at the National Teaching Awards hosted at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg on Saturday, October 5.

The 31-year-old bagged a laptop, trophy, certificate, Woolworths voucher and an international trip valued at R200 000.

On Monday morning she was welcomed back during a homecoming party and driven through the streets in a convoy showing her trophy through a sunroof.

The Gr 10 and 12 science teacher showcased her trophy to the community on her way to the school.

The learners, who call her mama, fellow teachers, and the Mopani West Education District director, Philippine Modika expressed their joy dancing. Maake told the Herald that she is overwhelmed with the win.

“I honestly did not think that I was going to win the award, seeing that I come from a school with limited resources. I believe a huge part of my doubt stems from the struggle I had in getting a job after graduating. I’m grateful for the love I’m receiving from everyone. She says she was inspired by her late father, who was a pastor and a teacher. My father taught us to always empower ourselves through education,” she said.

She holds BSc degree in science and an honours in educational management and hopes to register for her masters soon.

The principal of the school, Michael Phosa, said Maake’s win is one for the history books. “We have never had anyone from our school, let alone from our area win such a huge award.

“I believe this will also encourage other teachers to enter. She is a joy to work with, energetic and has a great attitude,” he said.

Modika said Maake has proven that a good teacher improvises despite the lack of a laboratory or facilities. For her to win as the best science teacher in the country, is humbling.”