Long-time Dr Yusuf Dadoo Primary educator retires

One of Gauteng West’s education giants and long-time Dr Yusuf Dadoo Primary School educator and principal, Dr Ahmed Essop Ismail has brought the curtain down on what has been an extraordinary career.

“His retirement brings to an end a remarkable 41-year career in education,” said Adil Shaik Mungalee, the deputy principal of the school in a statement.

Dr Ismail began his epic journey as an educator in 1980. He took up a post at the then Azaadville Primary School in 1989 where he was promoted to HOD in 1990 and to Deputy Principal in 1996. He became principal of the Azaadville Primary School in 1998 which was later renamed to Yusuf Dadoo Primary School.

This marked the beginning of an era of multi-cultural and technological transformation at the school which spanned over two decades. Supported by the Gauteng West Education District and local communities, Dr Ismail went on to become one of Gauteng West’s most decorated and esteemed principals.

In his illustrious career, Dr Ismail has enjoyed the company of many South African stalwarts the like former President Nelson Mandela at the renaming of Ahmed Timol Secondary School, Honourable Minister Kader Asmal and Walter Sisulu during the renaming of the Azaadville Primary School, Honourable Minister Naledi Pandor during the 30th anniversary of the Soweto uprising, Kgalema Motlante during the Dr Yusuf Dadoo 100 years celebration, former transport MEC, Mr Ismail Vadi at the Nelson Mandela celebration, and Honourable Minister Angie Motshekga during the Grade R launch in 2020. He was singled out for a special contributory presentation to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Education in 2010.

“Dr Ismail’s immense contributions to the school include a beautiful school hall which was officially opened by former Deputy Minister of Home affairs, Honourable Fatima Chohan and a modern multipurpose court. He networked with reputable institutions including the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy as well as NGOs such as Al Baraka Bank and IQRAA Trust to improve school facilities.”

As an academic with a PhD in education leadership and management he was the recipient of the NTA Excellence in Primary School Education award, Life Time Achievement Award and the Kader Asmal Excellence Award in 2019. These milestones were achieved with the support of his loving and supportive family – Suraya Ismail (spouse), Nazrana Ismail and Tahir Ismail (children), Suhail (son-in-law) and Zahraa and Zaeem (grandchildren).

“The staff, SGB, learners and parents of Dr Yusuf Dadoo Primary School owe Dr Ismail a huge debt of gratitude for his service to the school and the community at large. He will be missed by all. We would like to wish him well in his retirement.”