The 2024 NRF-NGER symposium held in Johannesburg brought together a diverse group of up to 300 delegates featuring stakeholders from South African universities, NRF executives, and industry leaders to support upcoming researchers and explore research and networking opportunities in line with the NRF’s 2030 vision of “research for a better society”.
Madimabe heeded the call to action by NRF, which the University’s Research Office promulgated.
“As a PhD candidate in the Thuthuka Grant programme currently in the third year of my studies, I saw this opportunity as a valuable chance to advance my academic journey,” she said.
“I felt compelled to apply, recognising that, if successful, it would allow me to connect and exchange knowledge with fellow postgraduate and emerging researchers at a national scale”.
“Such a platform would not only enable me to showcase my research but also provide an avenue to engage in meaningful academic discourse, needed for my scholarly development, which will contribute to my growth as a researcher”.
Madimabe’s research focuses on advocating for integrating Local and Indigenous Knowledge (LIKS) into secondary school mathematics pedagogy to foster a more inclusive and culturally relevant curriculum.
“I am deeply passionate about indigenising mathematics education, aiming to bridge the gap between cultural heritage and modern pedagogical practices. My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of educational approaches that honour and incorporate diverse cultural contexts while advancing academic excellence”.
Unbeknown to Madimabe was the highly competitive poster and oral presentation event, where participants from different universities and disciplines showcased their research in a concise and visually appealing format.
She credits her colleagues from the Faculty of Education for their constructive criticism, which helped her to refine the contents of her poster, ensuring that it was clear, self-explanatory, and covered all significant aspects of her research.
“For the presentation itself, I believe my 13 years of teaching experience across different educational levels gave me the confidence and ability to communicate my research effectively. I could connect with the audience, articulate my study’s significance, and present it coherently and engagingly”.
“Additionally, through the mercy of God, I felt guided and empowered to deliver my best. The combination of preparation, collaboration, experience, and faith contributed to my success”.
Madimabe aspires to deepen her expertise as a researcher and educator, to make a meaningful contribution to the transformation of mathematics education, particularly within rural South African contexts.
“Through my research project, I seek to gain insights and develop innovative strategies that address the unique challenges faced by our teaching communities. This knowledge will not only enhance my academic and professional growth but will also enable me to play a pivotal role in driving educational reform, community engagement and fostering inclusivity at the University and beyond,” says Madimabe-Mofokeng.
"We are extremely proud of Makhosi. This award is a prestigious honour that shines a spotlight on talented and innovative young postgraduate students and emerging researchers, like Makhosi. The award is more than just a recognition of excellence – it’s a celebration of the passion, dedication and groundbreaking research researchers undertake that’s shaping the future in their respective fields" the Department of Research Development said.
"As we recognise Makhosi’s wonderful achievement, we wish to encourage other NRF-funded Postgraduate students and emerging researchers to apply for this opportunity in 2025 to present their work at the symposium. The importance of being recognised for such awards boosts confidence, enhances your reputation in the scientific community and open doors to new opportunities for collaboration, research grants and career advancement."