WATCH: William Hills High School learners reunite after 43 years
For the past few years, the organisers of William Hills High Class of 1980 were hard at work preparing to make the event extra special
It was an exhilarating moment for former William Hills High School learners (class of 1980) who gathered at Fayview Function Venue, Rynfield, on February 25 to celebrate their 43-year reunion.
The reunion consisted of learners who studied at the school from 1976 to 1980.
This group formed part of the students who were protesting for better education in a series of demonstrations and protests including the Soweto uprising.
Accompanied by their spouses, the former learners who are now professionals in various fraternities shared hugs and kisses with their classmates who they haven’t seen for years.
They reminisced about old times over drinks and scrumptious food.
Several William Hills High School former teachers, with some of them coming from as far as Durban, also attended the milestone event.
Before attendees proceeded with the festivities, two candles were lit in commemoration of former learners who had died.
A member of the organising committee, Mahamed Mains, said they had initially planned to celebrate their 40th reunion in 2020, however, things took a turn when they were hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to Dr Anil Kanjee, who is now a professor at the Tshwane University of Technology, they initiated the reunion to reconnect so that they can give back to their former school which played a pivotal role in their lives.
“The first step was to host a reunion. We will plan what to do for the school as part of leaving a positive legacy. We will also get together with other classes and decide how best we can support our school,” he said.
Kanjee said he was overjoyed when he saw his former classmates, who had managed to survive the difficulties of life.
Former learner Niren Singh, who is now a successful businessman, sang praises to his beloved music teacher Marvin Quarsingh who he had not seen for years.
“I am ecstatic to see my former teacher and classmates in one room. With Marvin being here from Durban just shows you what kind of a teacher he was,” Singh said.
Quarsingh, who taught mathematics in 1979, said William Hills High School was a wonderful school.
“There was so much passion as the learners and teachers were committed to their work.”
Another learner Mohamed Salim Aziz shared that despite facing challenges during their childhood days, they are proud to have studied at William Hills High School.
“When describing the class of 1980, I can spend time talking about yoyo, kanekie, federation soccer, pinball, marbles and hopscotch,” he said
Suraya Essop and Natvarlal Kalans presented speeches on behalf of the learners and teachers respectively.
Also Read: Calling the William Hills Class of 1980
Also Read: William Hills Secondary maintains average in matric results
Gallery:
