By Siyamthanda Hobo

 

Rhodes University recently honoured Dr Boudina McConnachie with the Vice Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award (2023). This accolade, awarded annually to educators with fewer than ten years of teaching experience, recognises exceptional contributions to teaching excellence, innovation, and dedication.

The evening commenced with a welcoming address by Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Professor ‘Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela, who introduced Dr McConnachie’s work. The ceremony was attended by academic and support staff, family members of Dr McConnachie, and various guests; all gathered to celebrate the impact of her teaching career.

Dr McConnachie’s journey began at Umtata High School in the Eastern Cape, an interracial government school. This experience shaped her commitment to African cultural activism. Her undergraduate studies at the University of Cape Town focused on classical flute and indigenous African music, with an emphasis on traditional instruments such as the Uhadi and Mbira under the mentorship of Professor Dizu Plaatjies.

Further advancing her academic career, Dr McConnachie completed her honours degree in Indigenous African Music Performance and Music Education, followed by a master’s degree in African music and Copyright Issues and a PhD in African Musical Arts Curriculum Development at Rhodes University. Her career as an educator began at Victoria Girls High School in Makhanda, where she made significant strides in music education before joining Rhodes University as a lecturer in 2015.

Dr McConnachie’s teaching philosophy, which she elaborated on in her distinguished lecture titled ‘Harmonising Innovation: Embodied, Transgressive, Indigenous, and Permissive Approaches in Teaching and Learning’, emphasises the integration of experiential learning, transgressive teaching methods, and the application of Indigenous knowledge. Her approach challenges traditional Eurocentric educational paradigms and fosters an inclusive, transformative learning environment that respects diverse knowledge systems.

The impact of Dr McConnachie’s teaching extends beyond her classroom. Her contributions to ethnomusicology are recognised within and beyond the Rhodes University community. Many of her students have become internationally acclaimed musicians, promoting a love for music in various communities. Her scholarly work includes several articles, podcasts, and textbooks, such as "Listen and Learn: Music Made Easy" and "My Music, My Classroom," which are utilised in educational settings across the country.

Under Dr McConnachie’s leadership, the Department of Music and Musicology at Rhodes University has flourished. Her approach to the instrumental music studies course has led to increased enrolment and enthusiasm for African music and ensemble performance. Her commitment to active, self-directed learning and community engagement has enriched the academic experience for her students and supported local musicians through various initiatives.

Dr McConnachie’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades. She won the 2024 National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences Digital Award for Best Exhibition Catalogue and has participated in fellowships such as the Teaching Advancement at University Fellowship and the Future Professors Programme. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude to her mentors, colleagues, students, and family, acknowledging their vital role in her journey.

The evening’s festivities concluded with a performance by the Rhodes University Chamber Choir, reflecting Dr McConnachie’s dynamic approach to teaching and her passion for music. The performance highlighted her educational methods and celebrated her contributions to the University’s cultural and academic life.

Dr McConnachie’s recognition as the recipient of the 2023 Vice Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award underscores her contributions to teaching, her innovative approaches to education, and her influence on students and the broader academic community. The celebration of her achievements at Rhodes University was a testament to her career and her dedication to fostering an inclusive and transformative learning environment.