UCT vice-chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng has been announced as the inaugural recipient of the Africa Education Medal.
Founded this year by T4 Education and HP in collaboration with Intel and Microsoft, the award recognises the work of changemakers who are transforming African education, with Phakeng's impact, leadership and advocacy.
Phakeng became the first black South African woman to achieve a PhD in maths education in 2002, and in the two decades since has published over 80 research papers and five edited volumes on maths education.
In 2016, she was conferred the Order of the Baobab (Silver) by President Cyril Ramaphosa, and named the most influential female academic in Africa by CEO magazine.
In 2020, she was included in Forbes' inaugural list of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Africa.
Phakeng said: "It is the greatest honour to be recognised for my life's passion. Quality education is the key to Africa's future and I'm so grateful to HP, Intel and Microsoft for this award that I hope will inspire others across our continent to further the cause of African education."
She was chosen from 10 finalists from across the continent.
