South Africa recognises and celebrates over 420,000 dedicated teachers this week at the 25th National Teaching Awards, an annual highlight on the education calendar that honours those whose passion, creativity, and commitment shape our nation’s future and ignite every profession in the country. Hosted by the Department of Basic Education, these awards are more than accolades, they offer public recognition for excellence under often difficult circumstances and echo the call to value and support teachers as the backbone of our progress and development.
The National Teaching Awards, now in their silver jubilee year, have become a prestigious event applauding the hard-won achievements of educators from every province. Teachers are celebrated for their impact, resilience and innovation in diverse classrooms and communities, often working against significant odds to ensure that learners are empowered to reach their fullest potential. The 2025 awards span an expanded set of 15 categories, from Grade R to special needs, primary and secondary teaching, STEM subjects, and school leadership, culminating in Lifetime Achievement and National Best Teacher accolades.
This year, the Telkom Foundation is a proud partner, reflecting its ongoing commitment to upskilling and equipping teachers for a digitally enabled, inclusive future. All 48 finalists are rewarded with digital devices, generous monthly data, professional cloud training, and custom-built school websites, helping them continue to innovate and inspire in their schools. “Supporting teachers is a true passion. Every learner’s success story begins with a teacher who believed in them,” notes Judy Vilakazi, Head of Telkom Foundation. “Our investment in educators is an investment in every child’s dream and South Africa’s future.”
Ultimately, the awards remind South Africa that teaching gives birth to every other profession and that these educators, despite daily hurdles, create opportunities, close gaps, and drive both social and economic progress. The National Teaching Awards not only shine a spotlight on individual excellence and best practice, but also celebrate the collective impact of teaching on the future of the country.