One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.
– Malala Yousafzai
This became my mantra for 2022, and it beautifully encapsulates what I tried to achieve with my students… to get them to see journalism for the powerful calling it is.
I have shared titbits of my lecturing journey on social media, and promised to share a blog post. I cannot believe the academic year has flown by without me penning this post. Okay, I lie. I can believe it. Because I have been extremely busy getting the work done, and enjoying every moment of it!
I’m talking about many hours obsessing over lesson plans, PowerPoint presentations, practical activities and facilitating master classes with industry professionals. Oh! And let’s not forgot the weekends I gave up going out so I could mark tests, assignments and exams.
In the first semester, it took me some time to find my feet and in particular, get familar with the new online processes, after an almost two year absence at lecturing. By the second semester, I was running on the adrenaline of it all, as deadlines and year-end finals loomed for the four different and very intense modules I taught.
My emotions came to a climax when my 3rd year journalism students completed their final presentations. It marked the culmination of a journey we walked together, through theory and practicals, through trial and error, reading, listening to and watching news as well as analysing and understanding.
I didn’t think I would cry, but I did. I cried tears of joy.
They kept me on my toes as much as I kept them on theirs.
In teaching them, I learnt. In pushing them, I pushed myself to be a better lecturer and listener.
I hope I have made a difference in their lives; they certainly have made a difference in my life.
This is not the end. The crowning glory to their hard work, graduation, awaits… I am eager to see them with their gowns and qualification in hand. I know I will cry even more.
As I reflect on my personal lecturing journey, I’m still somewhat surprised. I never expected that I would love lecturing to this extent. But, then again, it’s only natural to be passionate when the process is smooth. The team at Rosebank College in Durban, and at the national office, have been incredibly supportive. This has motivated me, and allowed me to give off my best to my students.
Indeed, it takes a village to raise a child. I’m so proud of what we have achieved, and, I’m so proud of the students walking out our doors. Go out there and shine my stars!
With thanks to Masibulele Mkhundlu, Innocent Moyo, Veantha Naidoo, Nomcebo N. Nene – Buthelezi, Fathima Khan Ameer, Linda Fekisi, Orian Stanis Gobie, Ashir Lokchunder, Rivonia Karanchand, Amenda Shozi and Thalente Mthiyane
Behind a good student Is a good teacher. Well done Mai.
Thank you!