Renowned as South Africa’s most well-known mathematics and science teacher, William Smith has been recognised by the government for his contribution to both subjects, receiving the Order of the Baobab from President Cyril Ramaphosa at the presentation of national orders.
The ceremony took place on April 25 2019 and aims recognise South Africans who have positively contributed to the country in a specific field – ranging form arts, culture, music, journalism, teaching and more.
Smith is a familiar face to all South Africans as he featured on a popular show hosted on national television – educating learners on all levels of maths.
Jessica Smith, daughter to William expressed how proud she is of her father in a social media post.
Thank you for all the support for my dad! He is going to be so overwhelmed with the messages and love but more so to see how his passion to educate the nation made such a impact on South Africa, Africa and its beautiful people! #educationforthenation #WilliamSmith #prouddaughter
— Jessica Smith (@jess_speechpath) April 26, 2019
South Africans took to social media to praise the local teacher, thanking him for this years of service and the help he provided them.
I failed maths like a legend, not your fault sir, I was just to hopeless mara wena you are a legend and thanks for growing us up #WilliamSmith pic.twitter.com/9B6qD46kPH
— zigzagzigla (@NkoeKholofelo) April 26, 2019
#WilliamSmith This man pushed us 80’s and 90’s kids through high school/matric.. Well deserved accolade ? pic.twitter.com/QD2fQXzpMY
— SpecialBurger™? (@Tbang_Mohapi) April 26, 2019
Cyril: “If only Jacob Zuma had watched an episode or two.”
William: “He called in all the time. Kept asking for my x.”#NationalOrders #WilliamSmith pic.twitter.com/0CQy7248Qo
— #MrSouthAfrica (@RoryPetzer) April 26, 2019
I once had a fructure and I had to stay home for more than a month. I watched him on tv and still topped my class. Thank you ? #WilliamSmith
— ofentse (@khumo_D) April 26, 2019
It’s amazing to see South Africa’s reactions to #WilliamSmith’s award.
We need to honour the people who serve in the name of a better society. Let this be the beginning of awarding our Maths teachers for hard work.
— Jarred van Vuuren (@JarredBvV) April 26, 2019
I can proudly say this man had a huge influence in me being a Mechanical Engineer today. Thank you SO MUCH #WILLIAMSMITH ?
— TIME CONSTANT (@enthalpytheman) April 25, 2019
Thank you very much for what you’ve done.. Not all Heroes wear capes, some of them teach mathematics with an awesome attitude.. #WilliamSmith
— Kinesh Ramchurren (@Kinesh_R) April 25, 2019
Picture: Twitter, Government Communications and Information Systems
