Fond farewell to a beloved Isnembe Secondary teacher

Few people have as large an impact on young lives as teachers and the right one can help define the pathway to success.

For Dr Niksha Rajaram, a former pupil at Isnembe Secondary in Upper Tongaat now living in Aachen, Germany, that teacher was Shameena Sarmah.

Affectionately known as Mummy, Mrs Sarmah recently retired after 31 years of service at the school.

Dr Rajaram’s farewell letter to her former teacher:

This year, we said goodbye to a pillar of our school community – the beloved Mrs Sarmah. Her departure marks the end of a deeply meaningful chapter in the life of the school and in the lives of those lucky enough to be taught by her.

Before stepping into the classroom, Mrs Sarmah was a full-time wife to Mr Tukal Sarmah and a devoted mother to two daughters. But her aspirations didn’t end there. With quiet determination, she pursued higher education later in life, earning her qualifications and proving that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Her journey from homemaker to highly respected educator makes her a role model for young women everywhere.

She went on to dedicate her professional life to Isnembe Secondary, where she taught English, Technology and EMS with depth, warmth and a motherly touch that endeared her to generations of pupils.

I had the privilege of being one of those pupils from 2001 to 2008. During those years, Mrs Sarmah wasn’t just my form teacher – she was a safe place, a guiding hand and a nurturing presence. We affectionately called her Mummy, and the name suited her perfectly.

She was never one to raise her voice or command respect through fear. Her strength was quieter – built on kindness, fairness and genuine care. Even those children who struggled felt capable under her gentle guidance. She believed in us when we didn’t yet believe in ourselves.

Now a grandmother to four, Mrs Sarmah continues to nurture with unwavering tenderness, and she now has time to devote that same care to her beloved rose garden.

I echo the sentiments of the principal, SGB, staff and pupils of Isnembe Secondary when I say she will be missed dearly. But her legacy will live on in every child she encouraged, every young woman she inspired, and every life she touched.

Thank you, Mrs Sarmah. Thank you for being more than a teacher.

Thank you for being our Mummy, our guide and our example of what it means to lead with love.

Letter shortened – Ed.

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