The North-West University (NWU) continues to shape leaders who make an impact in education. Bongani Steven Dhlamini, an NWU postgraduate student, has been appointed as the new departmental head for Setswana and Creative Arts at the Gaetsho Secondary School in the Boikhutso Township in Lichtenburg.

Reflecting on the promotion, Bongani says: “This appointment as departmental head is a tremendous honour and a significant milestone in my career. It represents a culmination of my hard work, dedication to and passion for education.

“On a personal level, it validates my leadership abilities and motivates me to continue making a positive impact in the lives of learners and colleagues. Professionally, it is an opportunity to leverage my expertise and experience to drive departmental growth, innovation and excellence.”

He holds a bachelor's degree in education, specialising in Setswana and geography, and has furthered his studies with an honours and a master's degree in education management and leadership. Currently, he is working towards pursuing a PhD in education management and leadership at the NWU.

During his five years at Gaetsho Secondary, he has strengthened discipline, sought sponsors, improved the school's visibility, and managed its Facebook page. He considers this collective progress one of his proudest contributions.

“As departmental head, I aim to foster a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking and academic achievement, and to develop and implement effective curriculum strategies that promote learner engagement and success, mentor and support teachers in enhancing their instructional practices and professional development and build strong relationships with stakeholders to advance the goals and objectives of the department,” he explains.

Looking ahead, Bongani outlined his vision for the department. “My immediate goal is to ensure that Setswana and Creative Arts become not only subjects learners enjoy but also disciplines that prepare them for opportunities beyond school.” He adds that he aims to foster a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking and academic achievement. This will aid in the development and implementation of effective curriculum strategies that promote learner engagement and success, mentor and support teachers in enhancing their

instructional practices and professional development, and build strong relationships with stakeholders to advance the goals and objectives of the department.

Bongani hopes to bring fresh insights to his leadership role. “This role enables me to make a broader impact on the educational community, to shape the direction of the department and to contribute to the overall mission and vision of the school.”

The school community congratulates Bongani on this achievement and looks forward to the positive impact his leadership will continue to bring.

Bongani Steven Dhlamini has been appointed departmental head for Setswana and Creative Arts at the Gaetsho Secondary School.