Andile Maletsatsi Dube has always been passionate about youth-development issues. So, when loveLife had a vacancy she seized the opportunity and today leads the organisation’s youth programmes. Dube’s key responsibility is to manage the programmes’ strategy, operations, fundraising, special projects, marketing and communications. Dube has a master’s degree in environment and development studies from the University of Durban Westville (now the University of KwaZulu-Natal) and a doctorate in education policy studies from the University of Pretoria. She also received the best completed research award for the doctorate in 2010, was a member of the core team that established the research unit of the Education, Training and Development Practices Skills Education Training Authority, has featured among the Mail & Guardian’s top 200 Young South Africans, raised funds and established the Adams College computer laboratory, was a proudly South African ambassador and has appeared in Brand South Africa’s advertisement: Inspiring New Ways.
<strong>Why did you decide to join loveLife?</strong>
I decided to work for the organisation before the position became available because youth development is close to my heart and loveLife’s comprehensive strategy for dealing with HIV-Aids contributes immensely to such development.
<strong>Where did you grow up?</strong>
I was born in Umlazi P section in KwaZulu-Natal and spent most of my childhood and adult life there.
<strong>Where and when did you start school?</strong>
I started primary school at Bhekithemba Primary in 1983 and moved to Bavumile Primary School in 1985. In the same year I moved to Hlengisizwe and later to eMpu-sheni, where I completed my primary school years. Thereafter, I moved to Ogwini Comprehensive Technical College in 1988 and that is where I completed high school in 1992.
<strong>And your tertiary education?</strong>
I studied at the then University of Durban Westville in 1995, where I did my honours and master’s degrees. During this period I also completed a diploma in human resources management in 1999. I then did my doctorate at the University of Pretoria, where I graduated in 2011.
<strong>From your point of view, what are the qualities of a good teacher?</strong>
A good teacher maintains a clear balance between content and curriculum, considers how pupils learn and displays emotional intelligence. A good teacher is knowledgeable and qualified, well organised and plans in advance. A good teacher is fair, consistent, honest, flexible, approachable and considerate. A good teacher is an inspiring motivator and does not treat pupils as empty vessels.
<strong>What do you believe are the things a teacher should never do or say?</strong>
A teacher should never be unprepared, because once pupils lose respect, it is very difficult to gain it back. A teacher should never discourage pupils, call them names or be disconnected from them.
<strong>Who were your favourite teacher(s) and how did they influence you?</strong>
I have had a number of them. I would select Ms Muwandla, who integrated me into the culture of Hlengisizwe School, Mrs Xulu, who was very gentle, yet memorable, Mr Msomi at Ogwini for his hand in demystifying maths for me and pushing us hard and Mrs Tshitshi and Mrs Dube, who were like mothers to me.
<strong>Do you still have contact with them and if so, how?</strong>
I still talk to some of them from time to time. I wish we had stayed more in contact.
<strong>What were your favourite subject(s) and why?</strong>
Maths, because I did not have to study too much. I only had to understand concepts and practise them and I found the subject interesting. I did not like the essay-based subjects.
<strong>What message do you have for teachers in South Africa?</strong>
Being an educator is a special job. As an educator, one contributes not only to the complete development of a young person, but also to economic development now and in the future. As a former teacher, I know the pleasure of having happy pupils who try to be a bit better every day.