North-West University (NWU) alumnus Keketso Ramookho’s journey from a first-year Grade R teacher to a National Teaching Awards (NTA) 2026 award recipient is a testament to the power of perseverance, professional development and a passion for inclusive education.

Keketso, a Grade R teacher at Kutlwanong School for the Deaf, was recognised in the Excellent in Inclusive Education Teaching category at the NTA 2026 ceremony held at the Mmabatho Convention Centre.

Her journey to the awards began when her deputy principal, Ms SF Litchfield, nominated her to participate in the NTA 2026. At first, Keketso was uncertain about taking part.

“I was uncertain because I knew making presentations had not always been my strong point. However, this journey pushed me to step outside my comfort zone,” she says.

A significant part of Keketso’s professional growth has been her decision to learn South African Sign Language (SASL). Working at a school for deaf learners, she has found that developing her signing skills has not only strengthened her ability to communicate with learners, but has also transformed her confidence as a teacher.

“Learning SASL was the best decision I have ever made. It has instilled so much confidence in me and has made sharing my pedagogical skills enjoyable,” she says.

Her NTA journey took her through several stages, including the local education office, district and provincial levels, before reaching the national stage.

Each stage presented new challenges and required dedication, hard work and perseverance. For Keketso, however, the competition was about more than winning an award. It was an opportunity to demonstrate how teachers can embrace inclusive education and ensure that learners with diverse needs are supported in the classroom.

“There were days when it felt difficult as I had to step out of my comfort zone and make presentations. Yet I never gave up on myself because the main goal was to share my pedagogical skills on how I embrace inclusive education,” she says.

Her achievement also highlights the value of continuous professional development. Keketso credits the NWU for providing her with the opportunity to pursue the Advanced Diploma in Education: Inclusive Education Teaching, which has contributed to her development as a teacher.

The award is particularly meaningful as Keketso is in her first year of teaching Grade R. Her recognition demonstrates that impactful teaching is not determined by years of experience alone, but by a teacher’s willingness to learn, adapt, persevere and place learners at the centre of their practice.

For Keketso, the award is both a personal achievement and an affirmation of the importance of inclusive education.

Her message to fellow teachers is one of perseverance and faith:

“Never underestimate how far dedication, hard work and perseverance, and above it all, God, can take you. Keep showing up. Keep working. Keep believing. Keep pushing forward.”

Keketso’s achievement is a proud moment for her school and an inspiring example of how professional development, courage and a commitment to inclusive education can make a meaningful difference in the lives of learners.

Photo: Keketso Ramookho was recognised in the Excellent in Inclusive Education Teaching category at the 2026 National Teaching Awards.