President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the 24th National Teaching Awards (NTA) to be held at Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre on Saturday. The awards will be held under the theme: 'Empowering Educators to educate a South African learner fit for the 21st Century: Strengthening Resilience, Building Sustainability'. 'The National Teaching Awards is annually hosted by the Department of Basic Education to appreciate and acknowledge the extraordinary efforts made by excellent teachers, often in very difficult conditions. Such teachers provide for better futures for learners,' the Presidency said in a statement on Friday. The top of South Africa's teaching talent is expected to be recognised in the following categories: - Excellence in Grade R Teaching - Excellence in Primary School Teaching - Excellence in Primary School Leadership - Excellence in Secondary School Teaching - Excellence in Secondary School Leadership - Excellence in Special Needs Teaching - Excellence i n Special Needs Leadership - Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (GET) - Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET) - Excellence in Teaching Natural Sciences - Excellence in Teaching Physical Sciences - Excellence in Technology - Enhanced, Teaching and Learning - Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award - National Best Teacher Award 'The NTA aims to focus public attention on the positive aspects of Basic Education, thereby raising the public image of the teaching profession, recognise, appreciate and promote excellence in teaching performance,' the Presidency said. Source: South African Government News Agency