Johannesburg Retired Teachers Association honours two octogenarian educators

The Johannesburg Retired Teachers Association (JORETA) Diepkloof branch honoured two of its octogenarians with a heartfelt celebration at Modisha Yo Botse Lutheran Church on August 5.

According to JORETA editorial team coordinator Nano Mafisa, the association was founded in 1989 and now has eight branches across Soweto.

“This association is a home away from home for us. As retired teachers, we spend most of our time at home doing nothing, so being part of the association brings us together and gives us a sense of belonging,” said Mafisa.

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“We are able to know what is happening in the lives of our fellow former colleagues. Our association provides support in times of bereavement and celebration.

“Today, we are here to celebrate our octogenarians as they reach their 80th year milestone. This is a big moment for us because we know it is a blessing to reach these years.”

JORETA welcomes retired teachers from 60 years and older, with a once-off joining fee of R1 800.

The two teachers being honoured, Winnie Tsogang Tladi and Sannie Mashifane Matsunyane, both served in the profession for over 30 years and expressed deep gratitude for reaching this life milestone.

Reflecting on her teaching journey, Tladi encouraged the younger generation to consider the profession seriously.

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“Teaching is more of a calling than a career. If you are not called, you will struggle,” she said.

“I have worked in various schools around Soweto including Orlando West High, Lebone, Lofentse Girls High, Emadwaleni High and Matseliso High.

“I also served as a principal at Tshireletso Primary School. Throughout my years in education, I dedicated myself to my learners and the profession.

“I have always advocated for independence and empowerment, especially for the girl child.”

Tladi believes that educating and employing young women is key to addressing social challenges such as gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“If we empower the girl child through education and employment, we can help eradicate social ills. Young women will be able to generate their own income, whether through employment or entrepreneurship.

“They will be able to put bread on the table and support their loved ones, rather than depending on a man who may later feel entitled to control them,” she said.

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Matsunyane, who spent most of her career teaching deaf, blind and disabled learners, echoed similar sentiments. She taught at Kutlwanong School for the Deaf in Rustenburg, Bethal Opleiding and Emelang Primary School.

“I have always had a passion for learners with special needs since my first encounter with them during my practical training as a student,” she said.

“These learners are special and it takes a special educator to teach and nurture them.

“No matter the challenges I have faced in life, being a teacher has given me purpose and taught me to always rise and become the best version of myself every day.”

Her advice to young people: “Make God the centre of your life, respect yourselves and your elders, and most importantly, take care of your health. It is your wealth.”