SHILUVANE – A traditional leader, Chief Samuel Mugebisa Shiluvane of the Shiluvane area, near Lenyenye has set a big challenge to his community, particularly the youth, when he received a Doctorate in Education through the University of South Africa recently.

At the age of 60, Mugebisa, a retired school principal who took early retirement six years ago in order to lead his community, surprised many, including his close relatives, when he received his degree a fortnight ago.

Mgebisa's thesis was entitled The role of parents, teachers, and the state in the establishment of a culture of teaching and learning: A study in the perspective. Although his degree will not benefit him money-wise, Mugebisa said he would use the knowledge to advise the community.

"As a retired principal and a traditional leader, I believe there is a role that I can play in the community. Although I studied out of interest, not as a member of the community, I will help the community in solving problems that are related to education. I am still going to write educational books. Children and other community members must emulate from me. In my research, I discovered parents, teachers and pupils are not working together for the benefit of our education. My challenge is to help in educational matters," said Mugebisa.

Mugebisa was born at Shiluvane. He started his primary education at Shiluvane in 1953 and furthered his secondary education at Bokgaga and Maripi High School. He obtained his Teachers Diploma at the University of the North and also obtained his BA Degree from the same institution through part-time studies. He studied for his B Ed and MEd and doctorate through Unisa.

He worked as a principal at Phangasasa Secondary, Dumela High School, Khathaza High School and Tinghazi Primary School when he took early retirement early 1997 when he took over his position as the Chief of Shiluvane.

Mugebisa attributed his success to his wife Agnes and his four children who gave him the opportunity to study. He urged the entire community, especially the youth to emulate what he has done. "Take education seriously in order to succeed."