The Education Conversations, held during Africa Month, features a panel of speakers who bring diverse perspectives on the theme “Education for Dignity and Opportunity: Leaving No Learner Behind.” The session focuses on the critical role of school infrastructure, highlighting leadership insights, lived learner experiences, and research-based evidence to drive meaningful dialogue and action.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, 07 May 2026
Time: 14:00 – 16:00
Theme: Education for Dignity and Opportunity: Leaving no Learner Behind
We are thrilled to have the following facilitator and speakers:
Facilitor – Rev Deon Van De Merwe
Rev. Deon van der Merwe is a lecturer in Educational Psychology at the University of Johannesburg. He has a multidisciplinary background across ministry, education, and psychology, with experience supporting schools and diverse communities. Deon is registered with both SACE and HPCSA. His work focuses on psychosocial support, learner wellbeing, and community‑centred educational development. He has facilitated workshops and served on management structures in both non‑profit and professional settings.
Speakers:
1. Mr Klaas Mahlahlani
Mr Klaas Mahlahlani is the principal of Dikubu Primary School in the Waterberg District of Limpopo. He has dedicated 34 years to the education sector, serving 11 years as a CS1 educator, 5 years as Deputy Principal at Dikubu Primary School, and 18 years as Principal at the same institution.
He holds a Senior Primary Teachers’ Diploma, a Further Diploma in Education Management, an Advanced Certificate in School Leadership, a Bachelor of Education Honours Degree in Education Management, a Diploma in Human Resource Management, and an Advanced Diploma in Business Management. In addition, he has a certificate in Financial Management, as well as advanced diplomas in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint.
Mr Mahlahlani is the 18th National Teaching Awards (NTA) winner in the category of Excellence in Primary School Leadership. Under his leadership, the school has consistently achieved pass rates between 91% and 97% from Grade R to Grade 7 over the past ten years, with an enrolment of 1,400 learners. During his tenure, he has mentored and developed education professionals, producing two Curriculum Advisors, four principals, two Deputy Principals, and fourteen Departmental Heads.
2. Learner: Masete Kgodiso | accompanied by Teacher: Makofane NH
Makofane NH is a Departmental Head for Mathematics and Sciences at Potoko Secondary School. Born and raised in Shakung village, Makofane is a Bachelor of Education (BEd) graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand.
Masete Kgodiso is a dedicated, hardworking, and passionate Grade 10 learner enrolled in the Mathematics and Sciences stream at Potoko Secondary School. Known for confidence and a strong drive for growth, Masete enjoys exploring new opportunities and consistently challenges himself beyond his comfort zone.
3. Aluyolo Mbeki
Aluyolo Mbeki is originally from the Eastern Cape and grew up in the Western Cape. He has been involved with Equal Education for approximately seven years, having started as an Equaliser (learner member).
Currently, he is in his second year serving as a Junior Organiser for Equal Education, where he is assigned to the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province.
Please take note of the programme:
