Mr Khoza, a Mathematics teacher and principal at Laerskool Numbi in White Hazy 1 Circuit, Ehlanzeni District, was declared the 2025 National Teaching Award winner in the category of Excellence in Technology Enhanced Teaching.
The National Teaching Awards acknowledge teaching performance and aim to highlight effective practices in education. They recognise teachers and schools for their work and encourage the adoption of best practices. The awards also seek to motivate educators to engage in professional development and improve their teaching methods.
Mr Khoza is passionate about using ICT tools in the classroom and beyond to support early learning. He believes that challenging the perception that mathematics and the sciences are difficult subjects from an early stage is critical in raising future scientists.
“My primary goal is to facilitate teaching and learning for students, aiming to encourage critical and analytical thinking that enables them to develop tools and devices to address various challenges and improve everyday life.”
For Mr Khoza, being recognised as a regional winner of the National Teaching Awards was a rewarding experience.
“It was a validation of our hard work and dedication to teaching, and it motivated us to continue striving for excellence in our profession,” he said.
Mr Khoza believes that effective teaching requires strong classroom leadership, keeping up to date with new methods and technologies, and collaborating with colleagues to share best practices.
Mr Khoza emphasises the importance of staying updated on new methods and technologies.
“Give 100% effort, research and collaborate with colleagues, and treat everyone with respect and humility,” advises Mr Khoza to aspiring teachers and new educators.
With a passion for helping students learn and grow, Mr Khoza has developed a teaching approach that is both innovative and practical. His journey in education began in high school, where he discovered his enthusiasm for mathematics and science.
Encouraged by his teachers to pursue a career in education, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Education degree and later completed a Master’s degree in Education at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP). This shaped his approach to teaching, particularly in integrating ICT tools into lessons and developing a more confident and innovative style.
“A quality teacher is caring, hardworking, passionate about their job, punctual, and ethical,” says Mr Khoza.
As a principal, he works to embody these qualities, setting a positive tone for his school and inspiring learners to reach their full potential. His teaching approach is focused on encouraging creativity and critical thinking through research-based assessments and practical applications. One particularly successful initiative was a Natural Sciences and Technology project where learners were asked to design 3D figures and posters about planets.
“This project not only taught students about science, but also encouraged them to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. The project was a success, with almost all students using recycled materials and demonstrating a deeper understanding of the subject matter.”
Mr Khoza’s commitment to teaching and learning is truly inspiring. His innovative approach to teaching, passion for helping learners learn and grow, and dedication to excellence in education make them a role model for educators everywhere. He is currently pursuing his PhD with a research paper focused on ICT Integration and Robotics Implementation in the Foundation Phase.
Story by Nonto Nothana. Pictures Supplied. Copyright @UMP