A dedicated and hardworking headmaster finally retired after 42 years´ unbroken service in the teaching profession.

After teaching in different schools for 17 years, Mrs Selinah Takalani (65) of Mukula was appointed principal of Ramushasha Junior Primary School, where she headed the school for the past 25 years. She was appointed principal of Ramushasha Junior Primary School in August 1982.

During her long-term teaching career, Selinah has produced a long chain of doctors, civil engineers, politicians, entrepreneurs, and geologists, to name but a few. She wrapped up her service on 31 October 2007, and her farewell function was held the same day at Ramushasha Junior Primary School at Mukula village, north of Thohoyandou.

On behalf of the Department of Education, Mutshindudi Circuit Manager Mr Thendo Razwiedani described Mrs Takalani as a hardworking, dedicated and visionary leader who played a meaningful role in the development of education. "She was always cooperative, readily available and carried out instructions professionally. As a disciplined educator, she worked hard without constant supervision because to her, teaching was not just a career but a way of life. According to my knowledge, she has never appeared before any disciplinary committee, meaning that she was a focused, dedicated servant who knew her job very well."

Razwiedani said Mrs Takalani’s exemplary life should serve as a motivation to young teachers. "Everyone can see that she was a great soldier in the teaching profession and I hope the young teachers will pick up the spear from where she left off. We wish her more health and a deserved rest after such hard work."

Takalani said she succeeded all these 42 years through her spirit of cooperation with different stakeholders. "I have finally arrived here because of the support from the Department of Education, community members, fellow educators and friends. I would have been wrong to say that this is a one-man battle because in education, we need each other’s support to succeed. We can only succeed through hard work, unity and dedication. The simplest way of managing a prosperous school is to cooperate with the teachers, parents and traditional leaders. Thanks, everyone who contributed to my success."