The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Foundation hosted Teacher Appreciation Day, bringing together UKZN Education alumni, students and staff from the School of Education for a celebration of the teaching profession and the educators who continue to make a difference in classrooms and communities across South Africa.

Welcoming participants, UKZN’s Dean of Teaching and Learning, Professor Asheena Singh-Pillay, emphasised the importance of maintaining strong ties with fellow graduates and the University.

“We want to forge a powerful alumni network with you,” said Singh-Pillay. “A network where people can share expertise, ideas and learn from one another. At some point, someone invested in each of us, so we need to give back, whether with expertise or financially.”

Her message set the tone for the day, encouraging alumni teachers to remain connected, collaborate with one another and support future generations of educators through mentorship, knowledge-sharing and engagement with their alma mater.

Building on this theme, Executive Director of the UKZN Foundation, Mr Steve Camp, highlighted the many ways alumni could contribute beyond financial support.

Said Camp: “One of the purposes of today is to network. Giving back to your alma mater is not always about money; it can also be in terms of mentoring and guiding someone. There are various ways to make a difference through the University.”

Camp encouraged participants to embrace the power of the alumni network and to recognise the value of supporting fellow graduates and students through the University.

A highlight of the programme was an engaging panel discussion featuring UKZN alumni at different stages of their careers. The discussion provided Education students with valuable insights into the profession while showcasing the diverse paths available to graduates.

The panel featured Mr Mohamed Saeed, who brought a leadership perspective to the conversation; Mr Lindokuhle Mhlongo, who reflected on his experiences in the teaching profession; and Ms Olwethu Sibiya, a recently graduated teacher who shared the perspective of a young educator entering the classroom.

Guests were inspired by a motivational address from TikTok teaching sensation Mr Sam Mhlophe, whose innovative teaching methods have earned him widespread recognition. Sharing some of the classroom strategies that have contributed to his success, Mhlophe encouraged educators to remain passionate, creative and adaptable in their approach to teaching.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere was a performance by the talented Edgewood Choir, whose outstanding musical renditions captivated the audience throughout the day. The choir’s vibrant performance was enthusiastically received and proved to be a highlight of the event.

The celebration culminated with the presentation of the UKZN Teacher Awards, recognising exceptional educators within the UKZN alumni community.

Award Winners

•    Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award – Mr Xolani Maxwell Maduna

•    Teacher of the Year Award – Mr Halalisani Ntshangase

•    Innovation in Teaching Award – Ms Nokwethemba Zikalala

•    Emerging Teacher Award – Mr Bandile Ngiba

The awards recognised and celebrated the achievements of UKZN-trained educators who continue to fly the UKZN flag high in schools and communities across the country.

As the event concluded, alumni, students and staff left with a renewed appreciation for the power of education and the importance of staying connected to their alma mater.

Words: Tankiso Mabotha

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini