Itumeleng Komane, a graduate of the North-West University (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus and a dedicated teacher at the Sunrise View Secondary School, recently achieved a significant milestone by securing the top position in the prestigious Excellence in Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning category at the National Teaching Awards.
His story serves as an inspiration to teachers and learners, demonstrating the transformative power of passionate and committed teaching.
Hailing from North West, the 26-year-old teacher has etched his name in history as the first teacher from the region to attain this prestigious honour.
Itumeleng's journey to success can be traced back to his academic years at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Education in the Senior and FET Phase, specialising in mathematical literacy and life orientation, in 2022. He also held the position of current affairs officer from 2018 to 2019 and was the primarius at Thuthuka Residence from 2020 to 2021.
He says his time at the university not only equipped him with the necessary knowledge and skills but also instilled in him the value of excellence as a continuous pursuit rather than a one-time achievement.
Reflecting on his formative years at the NWU, Itumeleng acknowledges the supportive environment that fostered his personal and professional growth.
"The NWU created an environment where I could be myself. Networking with other students and professionals from different walks of life continues to encourage me to be bold enough to want to learn more by engaging with others. It is through the NWU that I learned the value of excellence. Excellence is not a one-time thing, but rather a journey," he shares.
As a passionate teacher, Itumeleng is dedicated to imparting the value of excellence to his learners. "I continuously strive to instil the value of excellence in my learners. Irrespective of any challenges they face, I encourage them to continue to work hard in pursuit of excellence," he says.
Itumeleng's innovative approach to education includes integrating technology into his teaching methods, aiming to equip his learners with essential 21st-century skills. Embracing the use of technology, he ensures that his learners are prepared for the demands of the modern world.
"I am truly honoured to be the first teacher in North West to be awarded the first position at the National Teaching Awards in the category Excellence in Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning. Integrating technology in my classroom ensures that I equip my learners with the necessary 21st-century skills," he says.
He says being a teacher has always been a passion of his.
"Witnessing my learners improve is truly a humbling experience – an experience I first encountered during the WIL student practical days. Knowing that I have made a positive impact on my learners even beyond the classroom is truly inspiring."
In the light of his recent accolade, Itumeleng attributes his success to the quality of education he received at the NWU and encourages aspiring teachers to consider the institution for their teaching qualifications. He hopes to inspire his fellow teachers to strive for excellence and prioritise the best interests of their learners, regardless of the resources at their disposal.
"Acquiring my teaching qualification through the NWU was the right decision. The quality of education offered at this institution made me the teacher I am today. Let us all explore ways to ensure quality education in our classrooms, regardless of resources. You are great, you are excellent," he says.
NWU alumnus Itumeleng Komane secured the top position in the prestigious Excellence in Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning category at the National Teaching Awards.
