EAST LONDON- The Eastern Cape Department of Education(EC DoE) held its 25th annual Teaching Awards ceremony at Hemingways Hotel in East London on 26 August 2025. The event aimed to recognize and promote excellence in teaching, encourage best practices and improve learner well-being, with the theme ‘Empowering Educators, Strengthening Resilience, and Empowering Sustainability.’
EC DoE MEC Fundile Gade highlighted the invaluable role of teachers in shaping the future saying, “Let’s take a moment to appreciate the tireless efforts of our educators and pay respects to those who’ve dedicated their lives to teaching.”
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the province, building on the foundation laid since the early 2000s.
In addition Mathematics teacher from Strelitzi High School in Kariega,Thamsanqa David Wine, was crowned the best teacher in Mathematics. Wine said, “I’m glad I was chosen as the best teacher. It highlights the long-term work I’ve done, I encourage learners to choose Mathematics as it’s not a difficult subject. We want to increase the number of learners doing Mathematics in the Eastern Cape.”
The ceremony went beyond teacher appreciation, focusing on shaping learners academics and helping teachers overcome challenges.
The 25th annual Teaching Awards served as a call to action for collaboration to empower educators, strengthen resilience and support initiatives promoting teacher development and learner well-being.
Photographs: supplied
