He was speaking at the National Teachers Awards in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni.

The event, attended by hundreds of teachers, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, coincides with International Teachers’ Day.

Ramaphosa says teachers have to make sure that their learners complete their 12-year programme in class.

“The devoted educator gives learners their attention, guidance, encouragement and patience. And when the child is absent from class, the teacher should be the first to know that this child is not in class today and in that way, we should be able to curb or lessen the dropout rate in our schools. We all know that many of our children do not finish the 12 years of schooling. So, a good teacher is a role model who encourages a child to achieve their potential.”

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