One of the founders of St Augustine Residential School in Tshandama village, Mrs Annamma Thomas, passed away in a Pretoria hospital on 3 September after a long illness. She was 76.

Mrs Thomas, along with her late husband, Mr Father Thomas, established the school in 1994. The institution caters for learners from Grade R to Grade 12 and is renowned for its excellent matric results.

Mrs Thomas played a pivotal role in shaping and nurturing the school in the rural Tshandama village. She was actively involved as the head of the pre-school (Grade R). Her husband, a former educator at Thengwe Secondary School, tragically lost his life in a car accident in Mutale in 2003.

Mini Anish, the current principal of St Augustine Residential School, expressed sorrow over the passing of one of the school's founders. Anish highlighted Mrs Thomas's dedication to elevating educational standards in the rural communities around Tshandama.

“The school is known for its remarkable matric results, with many alumni becoming doctors, engineers, and lawyers,” said Anish. “With an impressive average matric pass rate of 98.60% and a bachelor pass rate exceeding 80%, these accomplishments reflect the effectiveness of its innovative teaching methods and the unwavering dedication of its educators. Through this monumental initiative, the school not only prepares students for academic success but also instils in them the courage to reach for the stars.”