Norkem Park Primary bids farewell to devoted staff member after 44 years
Learners and educators honoured Petros Malesa for his decades of dedication to maintaining the school grounds.
Norkem Park Primary School recently bid a heartfelt farewell to Petros Malesa, a cherished member of its family who dedicated 44 years of faithful service as a ground staff member, driver, caretaker, and gardener.
The emotional send-off took place on February 27, with learners, educators, and support staff gathering to honour a man whose quiet dedication helped shape the heart of the school.
Deputy principal Lucy Mokoena paid tribute to Malesa’s exceptional contribution:
“Four decades is more than just time; it is commitment, loyalty, and love in action. For 44 years, he ensured that our school grounds were spotless, our gardens beautiful, and our environment welcoming.”
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She added that his work spoke volumes through the neat lawns, well-kept pathways, and the pride felt by all who walked into the orderly school.
“Malesa was not only a caretaker of our buildings and gardens, but a caretaker of our school spirit. His presence, reliability, and quiet dedication formed part of the heartbeat of Norkem Park Primary,” Mokoena said.
“Although it was a very sad day for us as we said goodbye, we celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in his life, his well-deserved retirement.
“This is his second journey, a time to rest, enjoy family, and finally do all the things he may have postponed while serving our school so faithfully.”
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“We thank him sincerely for his years of outstanding service. Norkem Park Primary will always be grateful for the role he played in shaping the environment in which our learners grew and flourished.
“We wish him a joyful, peaceful, and fulfilling retirement. He will always remain part of the Norkem Park Primary family,” Mokoena said.
