News and Events > News > UMP LECTURER OBTAINS MASTER'S TO KEEP ABREAST WITH EDUCATION TRENDS
University
26 January 2021

UMP LECTURER OBTAINS MASTER'S TO KEEP ABREAST WITH EDUCATION TRENDS

Ms Jiyane's research interest addressed complex educational challenges, especially those faced by developing regions in South Africa. These issues include poor performing teachers, poor work ethics, poor support for teachers and low levels of accountability.

“The education sector is ever-growing and there are so many new trends that we have to learn to stay relevant. It was a privilege to be mentored and guided by very strong managers. Their leadership not only made me comfortable in my day-to-day job but also inspired me to grow.”

She adds that education is continually evolving and that in pursuing her Master’s Degree, she was able to keep abreast of new trends and learn new ways of teaching and learning.

“Obtaining a Master’s Degree means that I will have more research opportunities and be able to participate in lifelong learning. As someone who values education, and who believes in the importance of learning, I decided to obtain a Master’s Degree and expand my knowledge in my field of education.”

“The degree will assist me to gain specialised knowledge to advance my career. It will also build on my current abilities, gain new skills and even transition to leadership positions.”

Ms Jiyane joined the University of Mpumalanga in January 2007 as the Teaching School Developer and Work Integrated Learning Coordinator. She says her journey at UMP has assisted her to grow as a professional and an individual.

“In the last few years, I’ve made good friends and have met charismatic leaders (when they address a team, they help you get the spark back and motivate you to do your best). I consider myself fortunate enough to have encountered inspiring and enthusiastic leaders such as Dr du Plessis and Prof Ric Bernard.”

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Pretoria, a B-Tech from Tshwane University of Technology and a Diploma in Education from the Transvaal College of Education.

She started working as a school educator specialising in isiZulu, English and Life Orientation. “My duties were to ensure that effective learning and teaching took place in accordance with the prescripts of the Department of Education and Training.

“I was also afforded the opportunity of being a Gauteng Primary Language and Mathematics Strategies Coach in the Foundation Phase where I supported and coached teachers in First Additional Language (English), isiZulu and Mathematics. I had to monitor their daily work and ensure that the approved methodology was used,” she says.

“I also worked as a Teaching School Developer at the University of Johannesburg, where I developed in-service teachers at the teaching school (Mareleng) to be mentors to student teachers. I have subsequently gained much experience lecturing Qualitative Research to Honours students for the Distance Education Department at the University of Pretoria." 

@Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.