Key Takeaways
- Teacher Lerato Ramabodu achieved a 100% pass rate in physical science for his matric class of 2025, a feat he has accomplished since 2017.
- Ramabodu’s success is attributed to his dedication, hard work, and support from parents, as well as his unique teaching strategies that ensure no child is left behind.
- He has been teaching physical science since 2017 and has achieved a 100% pass rate every year, including in 2022 when he was appointed head of department at Sekgutlong Secondary School.
- Ramabodu’s approach to teaching includes investing time in students who are struggling, providing extra classes, and strengthening chapters that students find easy to ensure they secure good marks.
- The basic education minister, Siviwe Gwarube, praised the performance of no-fee schools like Makwane, where Ramabodu teaches, saying they are an encouraging indicator of progress in the education system.
Introduction to Lerato Ramabodu’s Achievement
Teacher Lerato Ramabodu is celebrating his latest achievement, having secured a 100% pass rate in physical science for his matric class of 2025. This is not the first time Ramabodu has achieved this feat, as he has been consistently achieving a 100% pass rate in the subject since 2017. The 31-year-old teacher was born in Phomolong, near Hennenman in the Free State, and initially wanted to pursue a career as a radiographer. However, due to space limitations at the University of Free State, he decided to switch to teaching, a decision that ultimately led him to discover his true calling.
Ramabodu’s Background and Teaching Career
Ramabodu’s journey to becoming a successful teacher began when he started teaching physical science at Lekgulo Senior Secondary School in Phuthaditjhaba in 2017. At the age of 21, he achieved his first 100% pass rate in the subject, a feat that would become a hallmark of his teaching career. Over the years, Ramabodu has continued to achieve excellent results, and in 2022, he was appointed head of department for physical science at Sekgutlong Secondary School in Monontsha, QwaQwa. Last year, he took on a new challenge as deputy principal at Makwane Secondary School, where he achieved another 100% pass rate for the matric class of 2025. Despite his new role, Ramabodu remains committed to teaching and mentoring his students, stating that he wants to "groom other teachers so they can be better than me."
Ramabodu’s Teaching Strategy and Approach
So, what is the secret to Ramabodu’s success? According to him, it is a combination of support from parents, time, and hard work. His teaching strategy involves ensuring that no child is left behind, and he achieves this by investing time in students who are struggling. He also provides extra classes, often starting at 6 am and going into the night, to help students who need additional support. Ramabodu’s approach is not just about academics; he also prioritizes the well-being and safety of his students, often using his own car to ensure they get home safely. His dedication and commitment to his students have earned him praise from parents and colleagues alike.
Reaction to the 100% Pass Rate
Reacting to the 100% pass rate in physical science, Ramabodu attributed his success to teamwork and the support of his colleagues. He stated that it was "not about me but about teamwork. We work as a team." The basic education minister, Siviwe Gwarube, also praised the performance of no-fee schools like Makwane, saying they are an encouraging indicator of progress in the education system. Gwarube noted that students from these schools often face significant challenges, including studying by candlelight, sharing textbooks, and traveling long distances to get to school. Despite these challenges, Ramabodu’s students have achieved outstanding results, thanks to his dedication and commitment to teaching.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
Ramabodu’s achievement is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and teamwork in education. His commitment to his students and his subject has inspired countless young minds, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of teachers and students. As Ramabodu looks to the future, he remains focused on his goal of grooming other teachers to be better than him, ensuring that his success is not just a one-time achievement but a sustainable and replicable model for excellence in education. With teachers like Ramabodu leading the way, the future of education in South Africa looks bright, and his students will undoubtedly go on to achieve great things.