Programme

Overview

We recognise that South Africa’s education system is as diverse as its landscape, which is why we’ve designed a programme that addresses the wide array of needs and interests among our educators. To ensure that every attendee finds value and relevance in the conference, we are offering a robust schedule that includes a main plenary session as well as a variety of breakaway sessions and workshops.

The SAPA National Conference is taking place from Thursday, 11 September to
Saturday, 14 September 2025 at Boardwalk Convention Centre in Gqeberha.

Thursday,
11 September 2025

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07:30 - 14:00

Tours & Registration

14:30 - 15:30

Lunch

15:30 - 17:30

Opening Plenary

17:30 - 20:00

Welcome Cocktail & Opening of Exhibition

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Friday,
12 September 2025

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09:00 - 11:00

Plenary 2

11:00 - 11:30

Refreshment Break & Exhibition

11:30 - 12:30

Parallel Sessions

12:30 - 13:30

Networking Lunch & Exhibition

13:30 - 14:30

Parallel Sessions

14:30 - 15:00

Refreshment Break & Exhibition

15:00 - 16:00

Parallel Sessions

16:00 - 17:30

SAPA Annual General Meeting

18:30 - 23:00

Gala Dinner

Saturday,
13 September 2025

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09:00 - 10:30

Parallel Sessions

10:30 - 11:30

Refreshment Break & Exhibition

11:30 - 13:00

Plenary 3

13:00 - 14:00

Networking Lunch & Exhibition

14:00 - 16:00

Closing Plenary

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Conference Theme:
Lead the Change

At the heart of this year’s SAPA National Conference is a compelling call to action: “Lead the Change.” This theme celebrates the pivotal role of school principals and educational leaders as the primary catalysts for transformative change within South Africa’s education system.

Empowering Leaders to Shape Futures

“Lead the Change” is not just about management; it’s about dynamic leadership that inspires, innovates, and implements substantial changes that prepare schools for the future. Our educational approaches must evolve as the world experiences rapid shifts in technology, economy, and workforce demands. This theme focuses on equipping leaders with the necessary tools and insights to develop the skills that learners, teachers, and entire communities need to thrive in this changing landscape.

Join Us to Transform Education

The SAPA National Conference will serve as a platform for these leaders to share experiences, gather new ideas, and collaborate on solutions that will lead their schools into the future. It’s an opportunity to not only reflect on what it means to be a leader in education today but to see firsthand the powerful impact that one motivated educator can have on their community.
Join us as we explore these themes and more, to empower you and your institution to effectively lead the change needed for tomorrow’s success.

Call for Speakers

Are you passionate about educational leadership and eager to share innovative strategies that can transform schools? We invite you to submit your speaker proposal. This year’s theme, “Lead the Change: Transformational Leadership for Skills Development & Growth,” focuses on empowering school principals with the skills and knowledge they need to elevate their schools to new heights. We are looking for speakers who can: 

Enhance Leadership Skills

Offer actionable insights into effective leadership and management practices tailored for school environments.

Promote Innovative Leadership

Share cutting-edge approaches to curriculum development and student engagement that principals can implement.

Integrate Technology

Discuss the integration of digital tools to enhance teaching effectiveness and school management.

Develop Resilient Cultures

Guide principals on building resilient, adaptive school cultures that thrive amidst changes.

Drive Community & Stakeholder Engagement

Provide strategies for engaging with communities and stakeholders to enhance the educational ecosystem.

Speaker Benefits

  • Showcase your expertise to a dedicated audience of educational leaders.
  • Make a lasting impact on the future of education by equipping leaders with essential skills.
  • Connect with other thought leaders and influencers in the educational sector.
  • Enjoy access to all conference sessions (no travel or accommodation is provided)

Join us and Lead the Change

Register now from just ZAR 6550