English language teacher representatives of the four regions of Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), academics, DBE and GDE officials,  and others vested in promoting English language teaching and learning packed the hall of Parktown Boy’s High School on 02 June 2019. 

The launch, driven by the Interim Steering Committee under the leadership of President Dr Visvaganthie Moodley (WITS School of Education) and Deputy President Ms Renske Pieterse  (Provincial English Language coordinator, GDE), was set to ignite teachers with a passion for teaching and the need for professional development. The President’s speech unpacked the slogan of GELTA, Read. Think. Ink. For Humanity in Diversity and argued that teachers could use the classroom as a space for developing a humane society whilst simultaneously developing cognitive academic language proficiency.

Keynote speaker, Prof. Mirriam Lephalala (Head of English Studies, UNISA) inspired the audience on The World of Words: Transforming Lives. GELTA promises to be the platform for professional development and support for English language teachers at the various phases and looks forward to a growing membership. 

Professor Evans from the University of Pretoria pledged her support as national chair of the South African Association for Language Teaching. This professional organisation was founded in 1966 and is the custodian of an accredited academic publication addressing theoretical and applied issues – The Journal for Language Teaching.