Masego Ngwira, a distinguished alumna of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), is making significant strides in the field of mathematics education. At just 34, she has become a highly respected and influential educator at Hoërskool Akasia, where her passion and dedication are shaping the academic futures of young learners. Ngwira’s remarkable contributions extend beyond the classroom, as she plays a pivotal role in inspiring confidence in her Grade 9 students and transforming their attitudes toward mathematics. Her success is a testament to the calibre of SMU graduates, who continue to make a profound impact in their respective fields and contribute to the advancement of education and future academic excellence.
Beyond the classroom, Ngwira plays a pivotal role in addressing a critical challenge faced by her alma mater—ensuring a steady pipeline of quality mathematics learners. As mathematics is a fundamental requirement for admission to SMU, educators like Ngwira are essential in inspiring and equipping students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in health sciences. Without a solid foundation in mathematics, SMU’s student intake could face significant challenges, potentially limiting the institution’s ability to nurture the next generation of healthcare and science professionals.
Ngwira’s dedication not only contributes to the academic excellence of her students but also strengthens the link between secondary education and higher learning institutions. Her efforts serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of enthusiastic teaching and the profound influence one educator can have on an entire academic community.
Born and raised in Lomanyaneng, a village in Mahikeng, Ngwira attributes her resilience and work ethic to her upbringing. “My village shaped me into the woman I am today, and my parents put the cherry on top by believing in me,” she reflects. Her passion for education began during her university years when she discovered her love for teaching while assisting her peers in physics.
Ngwira’s academic journey is impressive. She matriculated in 2008 from Setumo High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics from the University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus) in 2012. She pursued an Honours degree in Statistics in 2013, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Unisa in 2018, and a master’s degree in Statistics from SMU in 2021. Currently, she is a PhD candidate at SMU, furthering her commitment to education and statistical research.
Ngwira’s teaching career began in 2014 at Khamane MST Academy in Mpumalanga, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for working with diverse learners. In 2016, she moved to Ntolo Secondary School in Madidi, North West, where she built her expertise in mathematics education. The following year, she joined Itirele-Zenzele Comprehensive School in Diepsloot, further refining her teaching methodologies. In 2020, Ngwira began her tenure at Hoërskool Akasia, where she continues to make a significant impact on her students’ academic journeys.
Her teaching philosophy centres around building confidence and changing learners’ perceptions of mathematics. “I start by building their confidence because I believe in changing the attitude first. One of Ngwira’s notable strategies is helping Grade 9 learners distinguish between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy, allowing them to make informed decisions about their academic future. She emphasises the importance of rules, using colour-coded notes to highlight key concepts, and encouraging participation in after-school intervention classes. “I am good at diagnosing and analysing my learners, and I also engage with parents to ensure holistic support for each child,” she adds.
Her dedication was recognised in 2021 when she received an award for improving Grade 9 mathematics performance at Hoërskool Akasia. Her data-driven approach, utilising Excel and other assessment tools, has helped identify areas of struggle and improve teaching quality year after year.
Ngwira’s influence extends beyond the classroom. A passionate musician, she has introduced choir programs in all the schools where she has taught. “Music unites, and the competitions we entered, we won,” she says proudly. At her first school, choir participation transformed the behaviour of troublesome learners, positively changing the school’s perception of extracurricular activities.
Ngwira’s commitment to her students is evident in the relationships she builds. “I make it a point that at the end of every year, I know every learner in my grade. I might miss their names, but I can tell you how they behave in class,” she notes. Many of her former students have gone on to pursue higher education, with some encountering her at SMU while registering for their degrees.
Josias Muthis, a former learner from Ntolo Secondary School and current SRC Chairperson for the School of Dentistry at SMU, credits Ngwira for transforming his academic journey. “Teacher Masego Ngwira’s dedication and passion for teaching mathematics opened doors I never imagined possible. During my grade 12 year, she stepped in during a critical shortage of teachers and not only simplified complex concepts but also inspired confidence in my abilities. Beyond the classroom, her genuine interest in my aspirations introduced me to SMU, shaping my career path. Today, as I near the completion of my Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree, I am deeply grateful for her unwavering support and belief in my potential. Educators like her truly have the power to change lives.”
Reflecting on a recent encounter, Ngwira fondly recalls, “At the beginning of this year, when I came to SMU to register for my PhD, I met two of my former learners—one pursuing his honours and another who had already graduated twice, now studying Dentistry and serving in the SRC. It was a moment of immense pride for me, seeing how SMU continues to empower its students to achieve great heights and make a lasting impact. It is truly rewarding to know that the university is shaping not only the future of healthcare professionals but also inspiring leadership and excellence in every field.”
By Tumelo Moila
