The new face of Dirkie Uys
He looks forward to improving some of the facilities at the school including the computer room and the library in order to provide the learners with the tools they require to advance academically.
GOOD quality education is one that provides all learners with capabilities they require to develop into well-rounded and successful individuals.
These are the views of the recently appointed principal of Dirkie Uys Primary School, Nduduzo Mhlongo, who is currently underway with fresh ideas and effective plans to provide the best possible education to his learners while grooming them to become well-rounded individuals through a value-based approach.
Upon his appointment just five months ago, in May, he has already amended the school’s code of conduct and improved safety and security in order to foster a safer learning environment for learners.
“I have had great support from the school governing body (SGB), management team and staff even when it comes to the changes that I have suggested. The first challenge that I experienced when I arrived at the school was discipline on the part of learners. For example, detention took place during the normal school day and didn’t really serve its purpose. I, therefore, approached the SGB and suggested that we amend the code of conduct and they approved the decision to have detention after school for an hour. There has also been the establishment of a discipline committee for serious offenses.”
The school previously had no gates at the drop-off point nor was there a security guard on-site and through meetings with the relevant members, the school now has a security guard at the school day and night and the installation of gates is underway. Mhlongo has received a positive response from parents and staff. He looks forward to improving some of the facilities at the school including the computer room and the library in order to provide the learners with the tools they require to advance academically. “I knew that when I came to this school it wouldn’t be easy and that I needed to have a clear vision in order to reach the goal of quality education.”
The foundation of his career in education began at Ezakheni College of Education where he obtained his senior primary teacher’s diploma in 1986. From then he began his career in education as a teacher at various schools ranging from rural, township and ‘model c’ schools, while studying for his honours degree in education part-time, which he passed with Cum Laude from the University of South Africa (Unisa). He is currently busy with research for his master’s degree.
“I thank the school governing body (SGB), management team and staff for their warm welcome and support. The school is slowly transforming for the better. Our aim is to improve the standard of education and I ask that the parents also support us in this journey,” he said.
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