Research@NWU November 2025

SA's young trailblazer in education: Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo

The NWU proudly celebrates one of its shining stars, Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo from the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning.

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo received the South Africa's Young Leader in Education award at the prestigious 40 Under 40 Awards ceremony held at Melrose Arch, Johannesburg.

This national recognition honours exceptional young professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions as influential leaders and trailblazers in their respective fields.

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo's award highlights her groundbreaking work in education, particularly her research on early STEM education and innovative teaching approaches that integrate environmental and digital learning in early childhood education.

In a congratulatory message, Prof Lloyd Conley, executive dean of the Faculty of Education, expressed his admiration.

"What an incredible achievement, the winner of the award as Young Leader in Education in South Africa! Your hard work, passion and dedication to making a difference in education have truly paid off. The trophy could not have found a more deserving home!

"Your journey continues to inspire so many of us, and this milestone is a testament to your unwavering commitment and faith. We celebrate you, our very own education champion!"

Winning the 40 Under 40 Young Leader in Education Award has reinforced Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo's commitment to transforming early STEM education in South Africa.

This recognition highlights the importance of innovative, learner-centred approaches and motivates her to continue developing initiatives that integrate digital learning, self-directed learning and environmental education. It has strengthened her vision to create accessible, engaging and culturally responsive STEM experiences that inspire young learners to explore, experiment and develop critical thinking skills from an early age – the kind of education she envisions not only for her own children but for all the children of the nation.

Renewable Rangers Project cultivates a love for science

Through her flagship initiative, the Renewable Rangers Project, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo aims to cultivate curiosity, environmental awareness and a love for STEM in young learners. By combining storytelling, digital gameplay and problem-solving, the project encourages children to engage with renewable energy and sustainability concepts actively.

Her goal is to find innovative, home-grown ways to introduce science concepts at early childhood level, ensuring that learning is culturally relevant and celebrates African identity and pride, rather than relying on approaches imported from other countries.

She envisions an education system in which learners not only acquire knowledge but also develop practical, self-directed learning skills that empower them to become environmentally conscious, innovative thinkers capable of tackling real-world challenges.

Following her moving acceptance of the award, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo dedicated the award to her two sons.

"This is for my two boys, Wavhudi and Rivhavhudi. Your speech delays inspired me to explore how digital games support learning, a journey that shaped my PhD and work in early education. I thank God, my mother and my brother for their support. To my sons – you are my why. And to every black child: nothing is impossible."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo's story is one of perseverance, purpose and passion – a reflection of how personal experience can evolve into transformative educational innovation. Her success brings immense pride to the NWU and serves as a shining inspiration to colleagues, students and aspiring scholars across South Africa.