Two teachers from the O.R. Tambo Inland District lifted the flag of the Eastern Cape high as they won at the National Teacher Awards (NTA) held in Johannesburg last week.
Fundile Sigwili, Principal of Upper Ngqungqu Primary School in Mqanduli, won third place in the category of Excellence in Primary School Leadership. Ntombozuko Mkizwana, a teacher from Mandela School of Science and Technology, won the National Best Teacher award.
Meanwhile, Mziwokhanyo Sigcau, from Zimele Senior Secondary School in Mthatha also represented the O.R. Tambo Inland District at the national level in the category of Excellence in Natural Sciences Teaching but did not make it to the top three.
Sigwili shared that he always fulfilled his duties as a principal in line with the Department of Education’s expectations, never anticipating that his efforts would be recognised.
According to Sigwili, his school excels in various activities.
“It is used as the Circuit Management Centre (CMC) of Mqanduli, which is why it is frequently visited by officials from the Department of Education. When the Subject Advisor, Thandazile Khundla, visited my office, she was impressed by the numerous awards displayed.
“This sparked her interest, and she encouraged me to enter the Excellence in Primary School Leadership category,” he explained.
Sigwili added that his School Governing Body (SGB) members and his Circuit Manager, Sindiswa Ncobo, nominated him for the award.
“I accepted the nomination and began preparing my presentation. I received support from Khundla and Nompumelelo Gwele from Mthatha Community Special School, who mentored me in crafting an excellent presentation.”
Sigwili progressed through various levels of the competition, securing first place at the district level at Umtata Professional Teacher Development Institute, known as Trinset, in Mthatha.
He continued to dominate at the cluster and provincial levels, taking first place at both.
“When I reached the national level in Johannesburg, I placed third. First place was awarded to KwaZulu-Natal, and second place to the Northwest. It was my first time participating in these awards, and I had no idea that doing my job well would take me to this level.”
Sigwili expressed his joy and encouraged other teachers to participate in these awards.
On the other side, Mziwokhanyo Sigcau also confirmed his first-place wins at the cluster and provincial levels.
He shared that each level of the competition, from district to national, came with its fair share of stress, anxiety, and satisfaction. He said the challenge is that they do not hear or see their competitors’ presentations.
He emphasised how being recognised with a National Teaching Award can significantly boost an educator’s professional reputation.
“This recognition can lead to increased respect and influence within their school and the broader educational community. Award-winning educators are often viewed as leaders in their field.”
Sigcau added that such recognition can open doors to leadership roles, such as department head, curriculum coordinator, or mentor for new teachers.
He further mentioned that award-winning educators might be invited to speak at conferences, lead workshops, or participate in panel discussions, allowing them to share their knowledge and expertise.
“The prestige associated with NTA can lead to career advancement opportunities, such as promotions or new job offers. It also enhances a resume or CV, making it valuable when applying for advanced positions or further studies. Historically, there may have been a tendency to focus on matric results and FET achievements. However, the NTA helps to highlight the significant contributions of educators in lower grades, ensuring that their efforts are recognised as well.”
He said the process encouraged him to reflect deeply on his teaching practices, achievements, and areas for improvement.
“This self-reflection is invaluable for continuous professional development. Navigating the various levels of the awards, from district to national, tested my resilience and perseverance.
“Overcoming challenges and managing stress throughout the journey has strengthened my ability to handle future obstacles.”
