“The rigorous academic standards and exposure to diverse perspectives at the University of Pretoria (UP) helped me develop a deeper understanding of educational practices and policies,” says Siphakeme Mthabela, an alumnus of the University who was recently recognised by the annual Mail & Guardian (M&G) 200 Young South Africans initiative in the Education category.

Mthabela, who is an English teacher at Hilton College in KwaZulu-Natal, obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from UP this year. He says that upon completing his PGCE, he stepped into the classroom with newfound confidence and passion.

“UP instilled in me an understanding of educational theories, effective teaching methodologies and the importance of fostering a nurturing learning environment,” he says. “I apply these principles in my classroom, and strive to inspire and empower my students every day.”

Mthabela adds that UP’s PGCE programme was comprehensive, and equipped him with the knowledge, skills and practical experience to excel in the field of education.

“Dedicated professors and mentors guided me throughout my journey, challenging me to push my boundaries and think innovatively,” he says.

His commitment to ongoing professional development, staying abreast of the latest educational research and collaborating with colleagues to improve teaching practices contributed to him making this year’s M&G 200 Young South Africans list. Mthabela is also a mentor to students and regularly organises educational events. His hard work and dedication certainly counted in his favour too.

“This prestigious accolade motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence,” he says. “It also affirms my capabilities and validates the countless hours that I invested in my endeavours. It serves as a reminder that even small contributions can make a significant difference and that our efforts do not go unnoticed.”

Mthabela says his typical day as an educator involves preparing lesson plans, delivering lectures or facilitating discussions, engaging with learners, assessing tasks and activities, and providing guidance and support to learners.

“I have always had a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people,” he says. “Education has the power to transform individuals and societies, and I have always wanted to be part of that transformative process.”

He opted to further his studies at UP because of its reputation ­as one of the top universities in South Africa.

“The University has a strong academic environment and a wide range of resources and support systems for students,” Mthabela says. “Additionally, UP offered the specific programme and specialisation that I was interested in pursuing, making it the ideal choice for my academic and career goals.”

However, he acknowledges that his journey was not all smooth sailing. A major challenge for him was balancing the demands of coursework, assignments and exams with other responsibilities.

“The qualification required discipline, time management and effective prioritisation,” he explains. “There were also times when I encountered complex concepts that required an extra effort to grasp. However, I overcame these challenges by seeking support from professors, engaging in study groups and developing effective study strategies. Perseverance and a strong support network played crucial roles in helping me to rise above these obstacles. As a result, I graduated with a cumulative GPA of 82.68%, distinctions in 11 out of 12 modules and one exemption.”

Mthabela says that education equates to empowerment and liberation.

“Education has the power to break cycles of poverty, inequality and injustice, and it plays a vital role in shaping individuals and societies,” he says. “It is a vehicle for personal growth, critical thinking and social mobility. Education equips individuals with knowledge, skills and opportunities that enable them to reach their full potential. It is not only about acquiring information, but also about developing a broader understanding of the world, fostering creativity, and nurturing empathy and compassion.”

As a UP alumnus, he believes that alumni should share their expertise and experiences with students, participate in mentorship programmes, provide financial support and advocate for the institution in various capacities.

Mthabela plans to continue advocating for quality education and working towards improving educational outcomes in South Africa and beyond.

“I plan to expand my impact by engaging in research and policy work, with the aim of addressing systemic issues and promoting educational equity.”