The Department of Basic Education (DBE), through its collaboration with the Republic of Cuba, continues to benefit from the expertise of Cuban Specialists who are making a meaningful contribution towards improving the quality of Mathematics and Science education in South Africa.
As part of the National Teacher Awards (NTA) adjudication process in the Limpopo Province Cuban Specialist, Mr Jorge Luis Bonne Fonseca, served as a member of the adjudication panel for the Natural Sciences category on 4 to 5 August 2026. His extensive experience in science education contributed to a rigorous and credible evaluation process, ensuring that excellence in teaching was recognised through fair and professional adjudication.
Building on this support, Cuban Specialist, Mr Rafael Mora Galan, was providing technical expertise during the Mathematics GET and FET adjudication sessions taking place on 6 to 7 August 2026. His participation supports the identification of outstanding Mathematics teachers whose innovative teaching practices continue to improve learner performance and promote excellence in the classroom.
The involvement of the Cuban Specialists forms part of the long-standing bilateral cooperation between South Africa and Cuba, which aims to strengthen teacher development, curriculum implementation and subject content knowledge, particularly in Mathematics, Science and Technology (MST). Through classroom support, mentoring, coaching and professional development, the specialists continue to build the capacity of South African teachers while fostering collaboration and the sharing of best practices.
The NTAs provide an important platform to celebrate dedicated educators who demonstrate excellence, innovation and commitment to quality teaching and learning. The participation of the Cuban Specialists further enhances the integrity of the adjudication process by bringing valuable international experience and technical expertise. The DBE acknowledges and appreciates the continued contribution of the Cuban Specialists in supporting the country's efforts to improve learner outcomes in Mathematics and Science. Their commitment reflects the value of international cooperation in advancing quality education and developing future generations equipped with the skills required for the 21st Century.
The adjudication process was further strengthened by the attendance of DBE Acting Chief Education Specialist: Continuing Professional Teacher Development (CPTD), Ms Mahumapelo Gaelebale, and Ms Yamaris Hildalgo Sachez, DBE National Coordinator for the Cuban Education Specialists Programme, who provided monitoring and support throughout the process. Their presence reaffirmed the Department's commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of the NTA adjudication while recognising the valuable contribution of the Cuban Specialists in advancing teacher development and improving Mathematics and Science education in South Africa.
Dr Shalati Manzini, Director for Teacher Development in Limpopo, highlighted the positive impact of the NTAs in recognising excellence in teaching, noting that the principal of Thengwe High School won a vehicle in 2014 for excellence in Mathematics teaching and was serving as one of Limpopo's adjudicators this year. Dr Manzini also reflected on the achievements of outstanding educators, recognising Ms Sonia Kallai (Grade R) and Ms Regina Lebeya (Secondary School) as previous recipients of vehicles through the NTAs. Dr Manzini attributed these achievements to the high standard of the adjudication process, acknowledging the dedication of the adjudicators, including the valuable contribution of the Cuban Specialists.