South African Educators Make Top 50 for Prestigious Global Teacher Prize

An inspiring testament to South Africa's educational advancement, Mokolwane Masweneng and Mariette Wheeler, have been named among the Top 50 finalists for the 2023 Global Teacher Prize. This honourable award, launched in partnership with Unesco and Dubai Cares, recognises educators who have made enormous contributions to their communities and the broader field of education.

Masweneng, an English educator at Dithothwaneng Senior Secondary School, Limpopo, has tirelessly advanced education ranks, particularly for girls, despite considerable financial restrictions. Fighting traditional norms obstructing female education, he champions gender equality, integrates technology in learning, and has initiated multiple community-enhancing initiatives.

Mariette Wheeler, a dedicated science educator at Protea Heights Academy, Cape Town, brings her passion for biological research to her teaching field. Outside of her classroom, her unique marine life recordings for a local radio station reach an impressive 400,000 listeners.

Highlighting the essential role of teachers in society's development, the Global Teacher Prize fosters an international community of exceptional educators and emphasizes their remarkable work. Stefania Giannini, Unesco's assistant director-general of education, saluted the South African finalists for their transformative contributions, marking them leaders in the field.

Masweneng and Wheeler were chosen from over 7,000 nominations spanning more than 130 countries, reaffirming the elevated, global prestige of this prize.

"Teachers inspire and prepare children and youth to navigate a rapidly evolving world. Their efforts play a leading role in transforming education for the future," stated Giannini.