Siphelele Nketo

TOP performing teachers in the area of Harding were given laptops for their outstanding work during the 2025 academic calendar.

The Umuziwabantu Local Municipality mayor Siboniso Zungu recently fulfilled the commitment he made during the teacher-excellence awards ceremony in March.

He handed over laptops to teachers from 14 high schools within the area of Umuziwabantu.

The initiative, according to the municipality, forms part of the mayor’s commitment to acknowledge the critical role played by teachers in improving learner outcomes, strengthening school performance and building a brighter future for young people in the municipality.

Zungu said the handover was not merely about giving equipment but honouring a promise and appreciating educators who continue to serve with dedication and commitment.

“We are here to fulfil a promise we made at the teacher excellence awards and we said we would return to honour our top-performing teachers in a meaningful way,” he said, adding that teachers often go beyond the call of duty in shaping minds and building confidence in learners.

He continued to say that teachers also play a meaningful role in opening doors of opportunity for the younger generation.

“These laptops are a small token of appreciation for the big difference they make in our classrooms and communities,” he added and further commended teachers, school principals and school governing body members, Department of Education district officials, parents and learners for their collective contribution towards improving the standard of education in the Umuziwabantu area.

He said the municipality remains committed to supporting education as a key pillar of community development.

Principals and officials attending the ceremony welcomed the initiative and noted that recognising teachers at a local level helps improve morale and encourages continued excellence in schools.