The NTAs are presented by the Department of Basic Education annually in acknowledgement of excellence and innovation in teaching and learning across South Africa.
Jonson was nominated in the Excellence in Technology-Enhanced Teaching and Learning category, which celebrates teachers who integrate ICT, coding, and digital tools to transform the classroom.
“The finals in Johannesburg are from 30 September to 3 October. During this period, finalists across 15 different categories will present. I will be presenting on Friday, 3 October,” said Jonson.
Since she was introduced to Tangible Africa in 2023, she started using their unplugged coding resources in her classes and have been an organiser and supporter of several coding tournaments in the region.
“Unplugged coding helps learners engage with coding in an accessible, hands-on way. I’m motivated by the belief that technology can open doors for every child. Coding and robotics are not just about computers — they teach problem-solving, creativity, teamwork, and resilience. Knowing that I can equip learners with skills that prepare them for the Fourth Industrial Revolution inspires me to keep pushing beyond my own classroom and share this vision across the region,” said Jonson.
Tangible Africa Founder Prof Jean Greyling said Jonson has played a pivotal role in not only getting Summerwood Primary School involved in unplugged coding, but many other schools in the region of Nelson Mandela Bay.
More than just one school
“The flagship project that she initiated and has been running for a few years is the quarterly coding tournaments, hosted between 4 to 6 schools. These are essentially coding leagues that she started herein Gqeberha,” said Greyling.
Jonson’s future goals are to expand access to coding and robotics, especially in under-resourced schools, by offering support to teachers as they develop their own digital literacy skills.
“I also want to continue growing participation in Tangible Africa’s coding tournaments and integrate more innovation projects like the First Lego League. Long-term, I would like to help build sustainable coding and robotics programmes that empower both learners and teachers in the Eastern Cape and beyond,” said Jonson.
She said while her learners had performed exceptionally well at regional coding tournaments, the biggest success for her is seeing learners who once doubted themselves grow into confident problem-solvers.
“At our most recent event, held at the Nelson Mandela University Science Centre, we had visually impaired learners from Khanyisa School for the Blind coding alongside sighted children. This was the first event of its kind in Nelson Mandela Bay, and it was a moving reminder of how technology can break down barriers and create truly inclusive learning opportunities.”
