Maqala: academic success motivated by “never stop climbing hills.”

Maqala Mothapo. (Image: Supplied)

Maqala Mothapo, a dedicated educator from the Lejweleputswa Education District, embodies hard work, determination, and the pursuit of lifelong learning. His commitment to self-improvement recently earned him the title of Best Student: Master of Education Studies at the Central University of Technology (CUT).

Currently a Departmental Head at Mmabana Primary School in Wesselsbron, his journey reflects perseverance through personal loss. While studying B.Com at the University of the Free State, both his parents passed away, forcing him to return home. Despite this setback, he never gave up.

He earned a B.Ed. (Honours) in Management from CUT Welkom in 2017 and a B.Tech in Human Resource Management in 2020. His excellence in teaching was further recognised with the Best Teacher Award in the Lejweleputswa Education District in both 2023 and 2024.

Originally from Thabong, Welkom, Maqala matricu-lated at Letsete Secondary School before discovering his passion for education. His teaching career began at Mosala Secondary School in Nyakallong.

In 2014, he became a Supple-mentary Instruction Mentor for first-year CUT students, receiving the Tutor of the Year award.

He believes education can transform lives. While proud of his academic achievements, he takes greater pride in the lives he has touched and the learners he has guided toward success.

Outside the classroom, Maqala enjoys reading, boxing, and soccer.

A proud father of three, he motivates his children and learners alike with his personal mantra: “Never stop climbing hills.”