FROM MULDERSDRIFT TO THE NATIONAL STAGE: NTOMBIFUTHI GUMEDE’S SCIENCE OF IMPACT
When Ntombifuthi Gumede speaks about teaching, there is a quiet certainty in her voice, the kind that comes from years of standing in classrooms, grappling with limited resources, and still choosing excellence every single day. A science educator, departmental head, PhD candidate and recent recipient of national recognition, Gumede’s journey is one that mirrors the transformative power of education itself. Raised in the old plots of Muldersdrift, Gumede’s academic story began at Lesego Primary School and continued through Matla Combined School, where she served as LRC chairperson in 2010. Even then, the seeds of her calling were evident. “I was always the learner who enjoyed explaining concepts to others,” she recalls. Science and problem solving fascinated her, but it was the moment she saw learners’ faces light up after grasping a difficult concept that confirmed her path. Teaching, she realised, was not just a career – it was purpose. Encouraged by dedicated teachers and mentors, including her matric class teacher Mr Moabelo, Gumede pursued a Bachelor of Education (FET Phase) through the Funza Lushaka bursary, followed by Honours in STEM Education and a Master’s in Science Education. Today, she is a PhD candidate at UJ, an institution she credits with shaping both her professional and personal identity. UJ stood out for its reputation in teacher education, research, and innovation. “The university combines academic excellence with inclusivity,” she says, noting how its embrace of technology and modern teaching approaches prepared her for the realities of contemporary classrooms. Beyond academics, residence life at what was then Amper Daar (now Magnolia Residence) played a pivotal role. Living on campus taught her independence, resilience, time management, and how to thrive alongside people from diverse backgrounds. Those formative years instilled values Gumede still carries today: excellence, collaboration, innovation and resourcefulness. One lesson, in particular, has proven invaluable: The “shoestring approach,” she says.
rural school contexts, where adaptability and innovation are essential.”
Currently, Gumede serves as Science Departmental Head at Magaliesburg State School, overseeing Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Natural Sciences. Her days are a careful balance of teaching Grades 10 to 12, mentoring colleagues, moderating assessments and driving learner performance strategies. In her classroom, lessons are interactive and structured, grounded in conceptual understanding, critical thinking and exam readiness, with technology woven in wherever possible. Working under the leadership of the school’s principal, Ms Moki, has been a powerful source of motivation and inspiration in her journey, alongside other women leaders. Teaching in a rural context presents undeniable challenges, but Gumede views these as opportunities for innovation. She builds strong professional learning communities, leverages available ICT tools and focuses on high-impact teaching methods. Most importantly, she prioritises relationships. Through open communication, safe learning spaces and even structured WhatsApp support groups, she ensures learners feel seen, supported and capable. “I consistently remind them that their background does not limit their future,” she says.
Moments of affirmation have followed. In 2025, a Grade 11 learner she entered into an environmental competition won national recognition and attended a week-long programme in Cape Town, a life-changing experience for a learner from a rural community. Equally meaningful has been watching former learners progress to university and, in some cases, return to education themselves. “That full-circle impact is incredibly powerful,” Gumede reflects.
“Learning how to teach effectively and creatively even with limited resources. That mindset has been incredibly useful in my professional life, especially in public and
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ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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