Editor
Having celebrated my 70th birthday and responding to requests to share some thoughts to inspire our youth and the “not to young”, I hope that some of my experiences and way of life will touch some hearts:
Our youth
Education (academic, human values, social upbringing) is a priceless gift.
No effort must be spared, no excuse found not to reach and achieve your dreams.
In my own case coming from a “restricted code” and from humble beginnings, I studied part time for my matric (standards nine and ten) while a factory worker and under a paraffin lamp.
With no financial resources, I had to tend to a large extent for myself, including holiday work to pay for university fees.
My BA degree I obtained studying part time (Unisa) under a paraffin lamp and yet enjoying my teaching.
Subsequent degrees I obtained again part time (Unisa).
As a teacher and as a principal, it was dedication, I worked shift, travelled about 10km each day by bicycle from Rensburg, occasionally all alone at night, perseverance and self-sacrifice that helped me enjoy an illustrious teaching career.
If I could do it, so can you. Remember 99 percent perspiration and one percent inspiration = definite success.
You have it so to say “on a plate.” Follow your dreams, make them work, you can do it. Believe and you can. Education is your passport to survival – future generations depend on you.
Learners need to know that teachers are your first gurus and need your utmost respect and co-operation, so do your parents.
Parents need to work closely with their schools and not give in to the wishes of their children.
I recommend that our learners enrich themselves by the writings of others, which definitely had an impact on my life.
Finally, enjoy what you have today, not what you will have tomorrow or what others have; bring happiness to all around you; remain humble no matter your success, for greatness lies in your humility.
Do good, be good and see the good in others. Good luck for the future.
Mr R Deonundhan
Retired Principal (Drakensberg Secondary School and Forderville Primary School)