Kgapane Teacher Wins South Africa’s Best Physical Science Teacher At The National Teaching Award
Agreement Mkhari 
Lucia Maake from Kgapane High School in Bolobedu wins South Africa’s best physical science teacher at the National Teaching Awards. The young and brilliant teacher was named the best physical science teacher in the country.
She received the award at the National Teaching Awards which were hosted at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg (East Rand) on Saturday, October 5.
The 31-year-old bagged a laptop, trophy, certificate, Woolworths voucher and an international trip valued at R20 000 at the awards.
On Monday morning she was welcomed back during a homecoming party in Bolobedu and driven through the streets in a convoy showing her trophy through a sunroof. The Grade 10 and 12 science teacher showcased her trophy to the community on her way to Kgapane High School.
The learners at Kgapane High School who call her mama, fellow teachers, and the Mopani West Education District director, Philippine Modika expressed their joy dancing. Lucia Maake told the our sister Publication, Herald that she is overwhelmed with the win.
“I honestly did not think that I was going to win the award, seeing that I come from a school with limited resources. I believe a huge part of my doubt stems from the struggle I had in getting a job after graduating. I’m grateful for the love I’m receiving from everyone. She says she was inspired by her late father, who was a pastor and a teacher. My father taught us to always empower ourselves through education,” she said.
Lucia Maake holds BSc degree in Science and an Honours in Educational Management and hopes to register for her masters very soon.
The principal of Kgapane High School, Michael Phosa, said Maake’s win is one for the history books. “We have never had anyone from our school, let alone from our area win such a huge award.
“I believe this will also encourage other teachers to enter. She is a joy to work with, energetic and has a great attitude,” he said.
Modika said: “Lucia Maake has proven that a good teacher improvises despite the lack of a laboratory or facilities. For her to win as the best science teacher in the country, is humbling.”
Source: Letaba Herald
