This Content is for Subscribers Only
The Department of Education, in partnership with the Marematlou Training Institute, celebrated the graduation of 480 School Management Team (SMT) members this week. The ceremony recognized the successful completion of the Advanced Diploma in School Leadership and Management, a programme designed to strengthen leadership and improve learning outcomes across the province.
What Happened
The milestone event, coordinated by the Human Resource Development Unit, showcased the department’s commitment to empowering school leaders. Through the Teacher Development and Learning Institute, the programme provided practical management and leadership training aimed at improving school governance and performance.
Graduates hailed from various districts across the Eastern Cape, marking one of the largest cohorts to complete the advanced diploma. The initiative focused on building confident, capable school managers who can drive excellence in teaching and learning.
Official Response
Education officials praised the graduates for their dedication and resilience throughout the programme.
“This achievement reflects our shared goal of building a professional, well-led education system that puts learners first,” said a department representative. “Strong leadership is the foundation of quality education.”
Representatives from the Marematlou Training Institute echoed this sentiment, commending the collaboration for producing results that will “transform schools into centres of excellence.”
Community Impact
The newly qualified SMTs are expected to bring renewed energy and strategic vision to their schools. Their improved skills in leadership, planning, and resource management will help boost learner performance and overall school efficiency.
Parents and education stakeholders welcomed the initiative, saying it demonstrates the province’s growing focus on investing in people who lead from the front lines of education.
