2025 National Teaching Awards Overall Winner
The Professional Educators’ Union (PEU) proudly celebrates one of its distinguished members in good standing, Mr. Thulani Sibiya, for being named South Africa’s Overall Best Teacher at the 2025 National Teaching Awards. His remarkable journey from classroom excellence to national recognition stands as a testament to dedication, leadership and the transformative power of quality education.
Mr. Sibiya began his teaching career in 2018 at Shinyukane Secondary School in the Ehlanzeni District, Mpumalanga, where he taught Mathematics and Physical Science to Grade 12 learners. Through commitment, consistency and innovation, he produced exceptional matric results for three consecutive years, earning recognition as the Best Educator at Shinyukane Secondary School and the Second Best Mathematics Teacher in the district for NSC results.
In 2021, his excellence earned him promotion to Departmental Head at Shinyukane Secondary School and recognition at the National Teaching Awards, where he placed first in Ehlanzeni District, first in Mpumalanga Province and third nationally in the Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET) category.
By 2025, his career trajectory had risen even higher. Now serving as Deputy Principal at Sopungane MSTA, Mr. Sibiya led a remarkable turnaround, transforming the school from an underperforming institution into one achieving a 91% pass rate. His efforts reflect a deep commitment to academic excellence, staff empowerment and student success.
This year, his continued innovation, mentorship and leadership earned him first place at district, provincial and national levels, officially naming him the Overall Best Teacher in South Africa for 2025. Following this national recognition, he accepted a new role as Senior Education Specialist (Mathematics FET) at the Ehlanzeni District, where he will continue shaping the future of education in Mpumalanga.
Mr. Sibiya’s story embodies the PEU’s values of professionalism, dedication and lifelong learning. His achievements are not only a personal triumph but a proud moment for all educators in South Africa.
The Professional Educators’ Union congratulates Mr. Sibiya on this extraordinary milestone and wishes him continued success as he inspires the next generation of educators and learners.
