Prof. Mamokgheti Phakeng
Panelist
Chief Executive Officer, Perspicuity Consulting, ZA
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Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng is an internationally acclaimed South African mathematician, mathematics education scholar, and academic leader. She is the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town and the first Black South African woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics Education. Renowned for her pioneering research on multilingual mathematics classrooms, Prof. Phakeng is a sought-after keynote speaker whose work has shaped education policy and practice globally. She has received numerous prestigious honors, including the Africa Education Medal and the Order of the Baobab (Silver), in recognition of her outstanding contributions to education and society.
Biography
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng is an internationally respected South African mathematician, mathematics education researcher, and academic leader. She served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town from 2018 to 2023 and made history as the first Black South African woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics Education. Throughout her distinguished career, she has held several senior leadership positions in higher education and has become one of Africa's most influential voices in mathematics education and academic excellence. Her groundbreaking research focuses on teaching and learning mathematics in multilingual classrooms, and she has published extensively while delivering keynote addresses at leading international conferences. In recognition of her exceptional contributions to education, research, and public service, Prof. Phakeng has received numerous national and international accolades, including the Africa Education Medal and the Order of the Baobab (Silver). She remains a passionate advocate for equitable, inclusive, and transformative education, inspiring educators, researchers, and leaders across Africa and beyond.