“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn” — Alvin Toffler

Malebese Ishmael Sello

Category

Education
 

Organisation / Company

Poguti-Maribulla Primary School

 

Position

Teacher

 

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Profile

Malebese Ishmael Sello, 30, is a pioneering mathemat- ics educator in Mankweng, Limpopo, redefining how learners experience numbers, logic and self-belief. At Poguti-Maribulla Primary School, he transforms classrooms with a learner-centred approach that makes mathematics relevant, joyful and empowering. He holds a BEd, three BEd Honours degrees and an Honorary Doctorate in ICT in education. Currently pursuing two master’s degrees in ICT and science education, Malebese exemplifies lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving world. Crowned Limpopo’s Top ICT Teacher in 2022, he was also honoured as Global Teacher of the Year and represented South Africa in China for a national mathematics programme. His part- nerships with Edunova, Bellamatrix ICT Foundation and Nka’Thuto EduPropeller strengthen digital literacy across communities. Through Kings of Tomorrow, a mentorship movement he leads, Malebese nurtures young boys to grow into confident, focused leaders. He also facilitates ICT training for teachers and learners, advocating for equitable, tech-enabled educa- tion. Driven by the belief that “education is nation-building”, he wakes each day with purpose — determined to shape a generation that is not only mathematically literate but boldly equipped to lead.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Education (BEd), University of Limpopo
  • Bachelor of Education (BEd) Honours in Technology Education, University of Limpopo
  • Bachelor of Education (BEd) Honours in Education Management, University of South Africa
  • Bachelor of Education (BEd) Honours Generic, University of South Africa
  • Master of Education in ICT, University of Johannesburg (*in progress)
  • Master of Education in Science Education, University of KwaZulu-Natal (*in progress)
  • Honorary Doctorate (PhD) in ICT in Education, IIU University – India (2022)
  • Completed short courses: Certificate in ICT, Wits  University and Mathematics Problem-Solving 

Achievements

  • Crowned ICT Teacher number one in Limpopo Province during the 2022 National Teaching Awards (NTA)
  • Named the CPTD Top Achiever for Limpopo for the 2019–2022 cycle by the South African Council for Educators (SACE)
  • Received several international accolades, including Global Teacher of the Year and Golden Star Teacher, among others
  • In 2023, selected by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to represent South Africa in China for a mathematics programme

Mentors

  • Belief in myself remains a driving force — consistently motivated by hard work and the positive impact made in the lives of others
  • Three remarkable women have played a significant role in shaping my journey, particularly in the field of ICT: Koko Phuti Ragophala (also known as Techno Granny), Mabore Lekalakala, and Mokhudu Mojapelo