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Advancing Vision 130 through online teacher training in Lesotho

27 February 2025 | Story Edzani Nephalela | Photo Supplied

Teacher Training in Lesotho 2025 — Various stakeholders participated in the two-day workshop from 16 to 17 January 2025 as part of the Online Teacher Training in Mathematics and Science on Content project. The initiative aims to equip secondary school mathematics and science teachers across Lesotho with essential skills.

The Faculty of Education at the University of the Free State (UFS) has taken a significant step in regional engagement and educational transformation through its partnership with Lesotho’s Ministry of Education and Training. In October 2023, the faculty, through its Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Technology Education Department, embarked on an R11 million project to provide online training for 235 mathematics and science teachers in secondary schools across Lesotho.

The Online Teacher Training in Mathematics and Science Content project will mark its final stage on 28 February 2025, following a two-day workshop from 16 to 17 January 2025. The workshop brought together key stakeholders to reflect on its impact and explore opportunities for further collaboration in teacher development. This project aligns with the UFS’s Vision 130 strategy, reinforcing its commitment to research-led, student-centred, and socially responsive education.

“This initiative is an example of our dedication to leveraging digital learning tools to address regional education challenges,” said Dr Kwazi Magwenzi, Director of Projects and Innovation at the UFS Faculty of Education. “By equipping teachers with enhanced pedagogical skills, we are contributing to long-term improvements in the quality of education in Lesotho.”

Strengthening regional collaboration and societal development

Over the past few years, the faculty has also strengthened its role in delivering high-quality education programmes, such as the Southern African region’s SANRAL Mathematics and Science PhD Programme. Through close collaboration with industry partners, public institutions, and the private sector, the faculty has extended its reach to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), ensuring its teacher development programmes remain relevant and impactful.

“One of our key objectives is to address pressing societal needs actively,” Dr Magwenzi added. “Our commitment to regional engagement means leveraging our expertise to contribute meaningfully to the development of the African continent, particularly in Southern Africa. As our close neighbour, Lesotho was a natural focus for this initiative.”

Expanding the faculty’s footprint in the region

The success of this initiative has laid the foundation for expanding the UFS’s regional footprint through additional short courses tailored to societal needs. The faculty envisions extending its expertise to other regions, further solidifying its position as a leader in education and research.

“As we conclude this phase of the project, we are inspired to build on these achievements,” said Prof Maria Tsakeni, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Technology Education in the Faculty of Education. “This initiative has demonstrated the power of strategic partnerships and innovative learning models. Moving forward, we aim to design more programmes that contribute to the educational and economic growth of the region.”

By fostering regional collaboration, enhancing teacher competencies, and driving educational innovation, the Faculty of Education at the UFS continues to shape the future of education in Africa. This initiative is a testament to its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and societal transformation.

News Archive

Cultivating excellence and success through academics

2011-10-07

Unlocking potential. At the Golden Key South African Summit 2011 were, from the left: Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS); Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic; Mr Ryk Neethling and Ms Charlene Gunter, Director: Golden Key International Honour Society, South Africa.
Photo: Phelekwa Mpono

More than 130 delegates are gathering for the Golden Key, South African Summit at the Bloemfontein Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS). Golden Key International Honour Society recognises academic excellence and uses knowledge to transform lives. It has 400 chapters in eight countries. Of South Africa’s 12 chapters, 11 were present at the summit.

Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic at the UFS, welcomed delegates from the respective chapters. She commended them for their perseverance and dedication to excel. “Your academic aspirations and commitment contribute to cultivating a culture of excellence. It will provide a better future for every South African citizen,” she said. Prof. Hay challenged delegates also to “act” by turning their knowledge into actions to advance not only themselves but also society. She also urged them to “discover” everything about themselves, their chosen disciplines, allies and oppositions. “Mostly, you must internalise the spirit of lifelong learning,” she said.

Mr Ryk Neethling, Olympic gold medallist and businessman, was the first keynote speaker. He took everyone through the steps that ultimately led to the moment of victory for him and his team. “We found a way to compete with heart and determination in the 2004 Olympic Games. We were prepared and we took everyone by surprise. “To achieve what one has set one’s mind to, we must dream big,” he said. “Play your part in the team and be confident. Remember that you are victors and not victims,” he urged. He further emphasised the importance of making one’s own luck and, most of all, never to give up.

Another speaker for the summit includes Ms Peggy-Sue Khumalo, former Miss South Africa. Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS) will present a workshop on Strategic Action Planning.

This event is the first external lecture that is presented in the Metro’s found in the new Health Sciences Building on the Bloemfontein Campus of the UFS.

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