President Jacob Zuma on Thursday paid a special and moving tribute to the winners and runner-ups in this year tenth national teaching awards at a glittering event held at Velmore, west of Pretoria.
In his keynote address president Zuma told the hall packed with august and well dressed teachers that: “this occasion gives us an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of teachers in our society. These are hardworking teachers who deserve praise and acknowledgement,” he said.
He said: “the central pillar of the programme of this government is to improve education especially in mathematics and science.” Zuma said education is the best tool to help break the cycle of poverty which affecting many families across the country.
“I urge all of you to continue with the good work that you do in our schools. On behalf of government and the people of South Africa I would like to pay a special tribute to teachers who are honoured here tonight,” said Zuma to a rousing applause.
Read the full speech here