POLOKWANE – After more than 15 years of dedicated service, Laerskool Pietersburg Noord (Noordskool) is saying goodbye to their beloved school ground supervisor, Johannes Lebepe (69), who has officially retired.

Lebepe, from Makgoba village in Mathabatha, started working at Noordskool in 2006 under then-principal Attie Visagie. Over the years, he became a familiar and trusted face on the school grounds, always ensuring that the premises were well cared for.

“I enjoyed working with Mr Visagie for a very long time and he was such a good leader. I appreciate him for all his advice and guidance. I will echo the same words about the school’s current principal, Mr Greg Schoeman. It’s been a pleasure working with him as well,” Lebepe said.

Fondly known as ‘Selepe’ by colleagues and learners, he described the farewell party hosted in his honour as an unexpected and touching gesture.

“Thank you all for the invaluable support and countless shared moments over the years. I’ll always cherish the memories I shared with all of you. I also hold Koos Maripa dearly close to my heart because we’ve worked closely together since 2006. He guided me throughout the years and became family.”

Father to Amos, Mmabatho and Mimi with his wife Linah, Lebepe is also a proud grandfather of five and great-grandfather of one.

“I cannot wait to spend some quality time with my grandchildren as well as my great-grandchild,” he said with a smile.

Schoeman praised Lebepe’s contribution at the school: “The school appreciates Mr Selepe for his hard work throughout the years that kept the school premises in such good condition. He has been an integral part of the Noordskool family, and he will be greatly missed.”