Former Supreme Court judge joins Penryn Council

It was three decades ago that retired Supreme Court Judge Phineas Mathale Mojapelo stood on the grassy grounds of what is now Penryn College as one of the founders of the prestigious school. Now, 31 years later, Mojapelo has returned to Penryn College to join the school council to continue to help the grow in becoming an even bigger beacon of excellence in the surrounding community.

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Mojapelo said he had a clear mental picture of him standing in the veld of the grounds before the school was built. “I am very proud of the growth of Penryn,” said Mojalepo. “When Penryn started, I had envisioned the school being a light on the hill that shines on its surrounding environment. It is not just about the more that 700 learners here, it is also about committing to impact on the education of learners in the area,” he said.

“This is also why we have Penreach; we want to make quality education for all. “Education is the best investment in transforming our society and building a more equal country. We are preparing better leaders for South Africa.”

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Mojapelo has been a member of the Penryn Trust for a number of years, and continues this position. He said he was passionate about education, and that it is a powerful instrument in both liberation and empowerment.

He said his first task as council member will be to sit down with Penryn’s newly appointed council chair, Shirley Mnisi, and talk about the school and its learners.

“Once I know how many learners there are in the school and their profiles, I will have a better understanding of any plans I may want to present in the future,” he said.

This is not Mojapelo’s first time in Lowvelder. In September 1980, he and his law firm appeared on the front page of the paper for being the first black law firm to open its doors in Mbombela.