Thomas Ndipanda is a teacher at Epako Secondary School who teaches mathematics and physics grades 10-12.

Wetumwene Shikage
What is the best part about being a teacher?

The best part of being a teacher is that I really enjoy easing the mathematical explanations for other learners so that they can find it interesting. It always brings a smile on my face every time a learner comes to me to tell me how much they like the subject after following my lessons. Secondly, what I enjoy about teaching is that I get to be as creative as I like. I create interesting learning spaces, unusual ways to approach learning topics and creative ways of solving difficult classroom issues. Not all schools or systems allow teachers to have this much freedom and without it, teaching could become boring.

What is the most challenging thing for a teacher?

The biggest challenge for any teacher lies in understanding the different learning abilities of the students. Students differ in their grasping, memory, concentration, ability to learn and write and show varied interests in various subjects. The biggest challenge for any teacher is how he motivates, guides and encourages the learners when they underperform, lose their focus and are distracted due to various circumstances.

What is the best part of being a teacher at Epako?

The best part of being a teacher here is that the atmosphere or the school environment is conducive for both teaching and learning. That is why Epako High School is one of the top-performing government schools in Omaheke Region.

What advice do you have for learners who want to become teachers?

I like telling my learners who want to become teachers in future that teaching has many rewards that are not necessarily financial. Helping people with disabilities feeds your heart and mind, so make sure that you have the passion it takes to be an effective teacher. Teaching is not just a job, it is an important role in children’s lives, which carries the responsibility of preparing them for success, both socially and academically. Last, but not least, work cooperatively with your professional colleagues. Sharing knowledge and ideas will help you work smarter.