Dr Mamphela Ramphele to speak at African Education Week in Johannesburg in June

Science teacher inspired Dr Ramphele “to work hard and believe in myself”“Educators have a sacred duty to nurture talent and inspire every child to become, from all aspects, the best human being possible!” – Dr Mamphela Ramphele, leader of Agang SA, says this will be her message when she delivers the keynote address during the opening session at the upcoming African Education Week at the Sandton Convention Centre on Thursday, 20 June.African Education Week programme director Claire O’Connell says:  “we are extremely honoured to have Dr Ramphele at our event.  Particularly since the theme this year is ‘Building Future Leaders in Education’, it is very apt for such an inspirational figure as Dr. Ramphele to address the people who directly serve and influence the learners and students of South Africa.  Dr Ramphele’s exceptional example of leadership has been witnessed throughout her formidable career in education, politics, medicine and business.”The African Education Week Convention and Learning Expo is the meeting and trading platform for everyone who is passionate about improving the standard of education in Africa.  Now in its 7th year, it remains the continent’s leading educational resources and training event, attracting more education professionals than any other event.Science teacher inspired herDr Ramphele says she had one particular teacher at school who inspired her:  “My science teacher, Mr Gouws.  He encouraged me to work hard, to listen attentively and to believe in myself.”  She says the most important thing that needs to change in South African education today is “raising the level of expectations of what we are capable of: our children, teachers and citizens should ensure that mediocrity is relegated to history!”  Her thoughts on this year’s theme of African Education Week, ‘Building Future Leaders in Education’:  “Make every child matter and ensure through interaction and encouragement that they become the best people they can!”Joining Dr Ramphele for the opening session are education experts:-  Graeme Bloch, independent education expert-  Gavin Keller, a veteran education analyst and development activist-  Johannes Cronjé, Dean of Informatics and Design Cape Pensinsula University of Technology -  Louise van Rhyn, Executive Director of Symphonia, The co-located Career Indaba attracted more than 4000 learners last year.  The expo aims to bridge the gap for students between studying and entering the world of work.Event dates:Wednesday, 19 June 2013:  Pre-conference workshops Thursday, 20 June 2013:  Opening keynote session, Learning Expo opens Friday, 21 June 2013:  Conference sessions, Learning Expo open Saturday, 22 June 2013:  Learning Expo open, Post conference workshopsLocation:  Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South AfricaWebsites:  www.educationweek.co.za ; www.careerindaba.co.zaContact:Communications manager:  Annemarie RoodbolTelephone:  +27 21 700 3558Mobile:  +27 82 562 7844Email:  annemarie.roodbol@clarionevents.com