Carole Podetti-Ngono represents a rapidly growing brand and is a symbol of passionate and selfless teaching.
Against the backdrop of the euphoria of South Africa’s new democracy, French-born Podetti-Ngono had the foresight to come up with a project to teach primary school learners about their country’s constitutional values.
Linked to this was the idea of developing learners’ sense of confidence and self-esteem – a huge need because most of them came from troubled backgrounds. The national department of education formally endorsed the programme and in 2000 Podetti-Ngono officially launched her pet project, christened Valued Citizens Initiative (VCI).
It was piloted at Ikaneng and Zola Primary Schools in Gauteng with 146 learners. She then extended the initiative to 1020 schools in Limpopo and Free State, involving 340 000 learners. In time this would be extended to other provinces. Teachers hail the programme, saying it has helped improve discipline levels among learners and enhanced communication between teachers and the learners.
Recently VCI launched an art book that comprises 30 art works and poetry. Titled Leadership Fables – From Leaders to Youth, the book was compiled by grade five and nine pupils. The initiative saw Podetti-Ngono nominated in the education category for the Shoprite/SABC2 Women of the Year awards earlier this year.
Where did you grow up?
In France, about 70km from Paris in a countryside (but this area has since been developed) called Limay in Yvelines province.
Which schools and universities did you go to?
Jean-Zay Primary in 1982; Renoir High School in Paris in 1988; and Paris Ten University in 1990.
Who was your favourite teacher?
Madame Levrat (I forgot her first name), who was my English teacher.She always inspired and encouraged us to do and give our best. She was very entertaining as well and liked to create positive competition among the learners.
How did she influence you?
She made me enjoy and appreciate languages. She also gave me confidence to believe in myself. She made me feel free to speak my mind, saying that it is only by making mistakes that you can learn.
Do you still have contact?
Yes, we do talk but only telephonically. I seldom have time to visit her when I am home.
Your favourite subjects?
Languages – English and Spanish – and history, geography and economics. With the languages, I learned to communicate better and interact with people as I travel the world. History and geography made me understand the dynamics of international relations, how people interact through their history. With economics, I learned which countries produce what and how they trade with one another.
What are the qualities of a good teacher?
One who puts himself or herself at the level of his or her audience – learners. He or she must be able to communicate proactively and openly. She or he must embody democracy within the classroom situation. A good teacher must have respect for the learners and must also focus on the positive elements or attitudes. Trust your learners like you would your own children.
What are the things a teacher should never do or say?
Never label your learners by saying “so and so is slow or stupid”. Learners have different ways of learning – your task is to explore methods that would work for him or her.
Your message to teachers?
Believe in yourself so that you are able to believe in others. I have trust in your competency. You must know you are the engine of change. Persevere and have passion to overcome challenge.