Prashwin Naidu
Long-serving teacher Mlungisi Nkosi has a passion for education. The mathematician and award-winning educator has recently turned his dream of making STEM education accessible to all into reality with the Mlungisi Nkosi Maths & Science Centre in Northriding, Randburg.
Soweto-born Nkosi has been a teacher for 15 years. He says the idea for the centre has been with him for at least 13 years.
The centre assists learners from grades 8 to 12 with Maths, Science, and Coding tutoring and career guidance aligned with STEM. The focus is on students who have yet to perform well, although students seeking extra lessons are welcome.
Matric students can access exam preparation classes, while post-matric students can take upgrade classes to enhance their performance.
“I truly believe that anyone can excel in mathematics and physics. I work extensively
with my learners to help them believe in their capabilities,” says Nkosi.
Nkosi was recently honoured with the Outstanding Educational Influencer award at the AKS Global Teaching Awards in Dubai. His educational content creation on the social media platform YouTube began in 2020 in response to the challenges faced by students during the global coronavirus pandemic.
Nkosi has garnered over 160,000 subscribers to his channel, where he focuses on innovative approaches to assist learners in comprehending Mathematics and Physical Science. The track has resonated with his audience and has aided many students in mastering and destigmatising these subjects. His philosophy of “individuals before content” ensures no learner is left behind, earning him views from across the country and beyond.
The passion for mathematics and physical science begins with cultivating a relationship with the individual. Acknowledging their potential and employing relatable teaching models significantly contributes to the teaching process,” says Nkosi. His strategy involves not making assumptions when tutoring on his channel; he often starts by revising concepts from grade 10 for his Matric preparation classes, ensuring his audience is comfortable with Matric-level concepts.
The dream of the maths and physics centre has become a reality for Nkosi and his team. Many students wish to benefit from the centre but need help. Nkosi welcomes donations from individuals and corporations interested in sponsoring struggling students.
His former students sparked the idea and approached him about paying forward the education they received to help another student.
“I imagine there are people who can and would like to contribute by offering their time, sharing advice, discussing their journey, and sharing wisdom in the field of STEM. We also welcome assistance in leadership and career guidance,” adds Nkosi.
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