Women have always been the silent stronghold of communities, supporting and nurturing their members. In the sphere of education, women have always been natural leaders, influencing minds and further fostering communities. Today, on Women’s Day, it is the time to recognize and honour all those remarkable women who have paved the way for so many others. As such, the current article sheds some light on Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng and her contribution to South African education.
The history of education in South Africa is a dark chapter that leaves a sour taste in most individuals’ mouths. Apartheid actively oppressed the Black population of South Africa by preventing them from receiving decent education. At the same time, Black women stood dauntless against the injustice that they saw being committed right before their eyes and decided to become herald of the better future that they envisioned. By doing the impossible and establishing underground colleges, teaching from home, and fostering a love for knowledge in the psyches of the Black children of South Africa, they inspired latter generations of women to follow in their stead and embrace education.
Therefore, when cast together with these outstanding women, Mamokgethi Phakeng makes a genuine powerhouse. A female warrior on the battlefield of education in South Africa, she is the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Mathematical Education. Mamokgethi Phakeng held one of the most significant and influential positions in the country when she served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town that is considered one of the greatest educational institutions in Africa. The power of knowledge, intelligence, determination and leadership are embodied in this woman who had to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds:
Her career as a math educator, meanwhile, is nothing short of astounding. Her contributions to math education, particularly in context of multilingual instruction, have made her a household name beyond the borders of South Africa. More importantly, Mamokgethi Phakeng has become a role model for female learners in South Africa, showing them that even when the odds are stacked against them, they can obtain the very stars. By supporting initiatives for community outreach and technology advancement, she initiated a change in the nation that would affect the power balance definitively and lead toward a brighter future. At this point, it is important to acknowledge that without the courage, determination, and commitment to education demonstrated by the women who had to pave the way for Mamokgethi Phakeng, her career could have been impossible.
Therefore, let us raise a glass to celebrate all remarkable women who have made it possible for other generations of female educators to follow in their wake. As the society is making strides toward a better future, it must also remember and honour women who, by fuelling their intellectual hunger, have created opportunities for other girls.
This article is dedicated to all the significant women who made an outstanding contribution to the development of education in South Africa. Your courage, resilience, and brilliance inspire us all.
