Mbobo Siyabonga

I am Siyabonga Mbobo, a South African male with a strong academic background and a deep passion for education. My journey began at Sidinane Senior Secondary School, where I completed my high school education in 2014, excelling in subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Languages.

I pursued my higher education at the University of Fort Hare, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in November 2017. Subsequently, I achieved an Honours in Psychology in 2018, furthering my academic endeavors. Education has always been a driving force in my life, which led me to obtain a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Cape Town in December 2019.

I continued my educational journey by completing a Master's degree in psychology with a dissertation at the University of Cape Town in December 2022, and I am currently working on my PhD in Psychology at the same institution, set to be completed in 2024/2025.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have gained valuable work experience in the field of education. I volunteered at Dlalindima after School Tutorship, where I taught IsiXhosa, History, and Physical Sciences for two years. I also worked as a student-teacher at Leap Maths and Science School, Rustenburg Girls’ High School, and Groote Schuur High School, teaching subjects like History, Life Orientation, and IsiXhosa. Later, I served as a lecturer at Rosebank IIE College, focusing on IsiXhosa and psychology. My commitment to education extended to the University of Cape Town, where I served as a tutor for Psychometrics and Qualitative Research.

I possess a range of skills that include leadership, effective communication, teamwork, active listening, and collaboration, all of which I have honed during my academic and professional journey. When I'm not immersed in academia or teaching, I enjoy playing soccer, reading, writing books and poems, and staying active through jogging.

I am fortunate to have references from esteemed educators and professionals in the field, such as Prof J.G Kheswa, Dr. M. Malinga, Dr. Osman Sadeck, Mrs. L. Nxawe, Ms. H Scheppel, and Miss L. Kayembe, who can vouch for my dedication and expertise.

In summary, I am a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a deep love for education and a strong background in psychology. My extensive experience in teaching and learning, coupled with my ongoing academic pursuits, demonstrates my commitment to personal growth and my desire to contribute positively to the field of education and psychology.

Conference Presentation: I presented at the 7th Southern African Students' Psychology Conference, where I discussed the crucial link between climate change and mental health. This demonstrates my commitment to addressing important societal issues and contributing to the field of psychology.

Commitment to Community: I have a strong commitment to community engagement and service. This extends beyond my work experience and includes involvement in community projects, where I have had the opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals and groups beyond the classroom.

Innovative Teaching Methods: I am dedicated to staying current with innovative teaching methods and technologies that can enhance the learning experience. My willingness to adapt and embrace new tools ensures that I can provide students with the best possible education.

Mentoring and Guidance: In addition to teaching, I have experience in mentoring and guiding students to help them achieve their academic and personal goals. This personal approach to education has led to meaningful and lasting relationships with many of my students.

Interdisciplinary Knowledge: My educational background spans different areas of psychology, enabling me to offer a well-rounded perspective that can benefit a diverse range of students. I can bridge gaps between various psychology subfields and help students see the bigger picture.

Commitment to Inclusion: I am committed to creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment, valuing the unique perspectives and backgrounds of all students. I believe that this inclusivity is essential for fostering a rich educational experience and promoting personal growth.

Adaptability: I have experience working in various educational institutions, which has equipped me with the ability to adapt to different environments and student populations. I am capable of tailoring my teaching methods to suit the specific needs of each institution.