Beloved long-serving principal from Sedibeng dies
He will be buried on May 26 after a funeral service held at the Christ Family Church in Hospital View at 9am
Former beloved Sedibeng Combined School principal Masilo Mokgatla died on May 12 at the Leratong Hospital after a short illness.
Mokgatla (77) of Emkhatheni Section is believed to be the only long-serving principal of Sedibeng Combined School, from 1973 until to his retirement in 2001.
According to his only son Lebo Tshwenyane Mokgatla, many will remember his father for his outgoing, yet wise character, his love for his culture and respect for the nation. The late Mokgatla was born in Langa, Cape Town, where he attended a mission school and gained knowledge in education, religion and political influence. He qualified as a teacher in 1962.
He served various schools in Bloemfontein, Hennenman, Matlosana and Tembisa to name a few.
One of his former learners at Sedibeng Combined School, Kennedy Nkwana, who is currently playing a vital role in the Department of Basic Education under the Minister’s Office, said the deceased was a people’s person, humble yet a strict.
“During our time in school, you wouldn’t just pass a littered paper or plastic under his watch. He would ensure that learners keep the school clean and tidy. He was a disciplinarian who produced better leaders, heroes and heroines currently serving both co-operate and public sectors.
“He was loved by everyone and was my pillar of strength who was always ready to go the extra mile. He was a hard worker who did his work selflessly and was part of the teachers who ensured the school produced great academic results. He will be sorely missed by the Sedibeng Combined School community,” added Nkwana.
Mokgatla was also a community leader and a member of the Tembisa Residents Association, Dikwankwetla and African National Congress (ANC).
“He played his role in uplifting the Tembisa community. He also played a prominent role as a church choir conductor during his schooling time, community choirs and under the Tembisa West Uniting Reformed Church,” said his son.
Mokgatla is survived by his second wife after the death of his first wife, one son and two daughters and eight grand-children.
He will be buried on May 26 after a funeral service held at the Christ Family Church in Hospital View at 9am.
He will be taken to his final resting place at the Mooifontein Cemetery at noon.
