Women educators in South Africa bring a unique and valuable approach to solving problems in the classroom. They’re known for their empathy, adaptability, and deep understanding of their students’ diverse backgrounds. Instead of sticking to rigid methods, women teachers often create inclusive and engaging environments where students feel encouraged to participate and be creative. Their empathy and emotional intelligence help them to identify underlying issues, build trust, and communicate effectively with students. Teachers face challenges beyond teaching every day – they have to juggle the roles of social workers, mothers, counsellors, and more. Their emotional intelligence is key to supporting their students and communities in so many ways.

South African women teachers are true problem solvers, navigating a tough landscape filled with socio-economic challenges, limited resources, and systemic inequalities. Their creativity shines through in everyday solutions, like finding ways to teach with almost no materials and working in schools with tiny budgets where most parents can’t afford fees or supplies. Our teachers have become masters at improvising and making do with what they have. Many of these incredible women teachers have personal stories of overcoming challenges like poverty, gender discrimination, and heavy domestic responsibilities. Despite all these challenges, they thrive in their teaching careers while supporting their students, families, and communities. Their dedication and resilience are truly inspiring.

Women tend to use collaborative and inclusive problem-solving methods, valuing input from everyone involved to create environments where everyone’s voice can be heard. Our women teachers build strong networks within schools and across districts, sharing lesson plans, emotional support, and student engagement strategies. This teamwork and shared approach leads to comprehensive and sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.

Women educators in South Africa are strong leaders who focus on collaboration, mentorship, and building supportive teams to foster a sense of shared responsibility. They work tirelessly to push for policies that support work-life balance, provide professional development opportunities, and address the unique challenges female educators and students face.

The strength of women in South Africa’s education sector is evident in their unique problem-solving approaches, leadership skills, and ability to build supportive relationships. Juggling teaching responsibilities with family life is no easy feat when, other than daily classes, women teachers prepare lessons, attend meetings, mark students’ work and further their studies while still managing their households. These women are not only educators – they are innovators, leaders, and advocates, shaping the minds and hearts of future generations of South Africans.

As Limina celebrates our women educators’ achievements this Women’s Month, it is essential to continue supporting and empowering them to ensure that their contributions are recognised and that they have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. The impact of their work is our collective hope for progress for all South Africans. As the education activist Malala Yousafzai aptly said, ‘One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can save the world.’

By Chantal Tarling