African EduWeek returns to Johannesburg to empower teachers with practical expo and workshops

Thousands of teachers and education experts will gather for the annual African EduWeek from 10-11 July in Johannesburg for an interactive conference and expo that will empower them through technology, skills and interaction with their peers.

Says African EduWeek event director Tanya Jackman: "We want to promote the idea that the power to create change in education lies in the hands of the individual. At African EduWeek teachers will be able to attend practical and hands-on workshops which train and enhance their teaching skills in the classroom and enhancing the learning experience of their students. They will also focus on the issues which teachers face every day such as overcrowding, safety & security, teaching in a school with a multitude of languages and lack of infrastructure."

She continues: "African EduWeek is the only event in South Africa that showcases some of the world's leading educational technology brands. Teachers will not only get to learn about the latest technologies and innovations within the education sector but will also get quality time with the creators and suppliers, providing working demonstrations and best practice advice for practical implementation. We don't want teachers to feel intimidated by the word technology, but to empower them to effectively implement the latest teaching methods into their classroom."

Africans understand the value of education

Many well-known suppliers to the education sector are backing the event, particularly Intel who is the diamond sponsor. Says Andre Christian, Education Business Development Manager at Intel: "Africans, without a doubt, understand the value of a good education. This acceptance of education, allows for a market with a willing attitude to embrace technology in education. There is a need to ensure teachers are able, skilled and confident to teach using this technology."

"Integrating technology into teaching and learning" he adds, "has the potential to enable equal access to quality education resources. If we want all the children of South Africa to have access to quality education, it implies that they should have access to technology to enable this engagement."

Some conference highlights:

Opening session: Chairman: Graeme Bloch, Independent Education Specialist

• Why teacher education should include neuroscience

Dr Judy Willis, Neurologist turned classroom teacher, United States of America