Hats off to Roshnee’s Madam Fazila
ROSHNEE. - “I feel blessed to have reached retirement in good health. My teaching career has reached its full circle, from here I will take it one day at a time.” These were the sentiments of Madam Fazila Oma from Roshnee Primary School.
In her 45 years of service to education, Madame Fazila has been dedicated to her career, taking a break from teaching only to raise her children when they were young.
She began her teaching career at Roodepoort High School (her former high school) and later became a teacher at Trinity High School in Lenasia, then at Roshnee High School, and finally at Roshnee Primary School.
The decision to become a teacher originated with her parents, even though she always had a passion for children. “In those days there weren’t many career choices for Indian girls.
My parents felt that this would be a safe and secure career to follow. I think they had wisdom and foresight. It was a good choice,” says Madam Fazila.
After receiving her teaching diploma from the then Transvaal College of Education in Fordsburg, she started a career filled with many highlights and adventures.
“I think my highlight will definitely be the year I studied for the Ace Diploma. It was very emotional to see my children and grandchildren celebrate my graduation.
“Learners’ achievements were also very rewarding. Especially meeting pupils after many years and celebrating with them their achievements,” says Madam Fazila.
Nevertheless, there are always low points in any career. “My saddest memory will be the death of the children who were burnt in their home. It was heart breaking to attend a funeral of one of my Grade 4 learners”.
Madam Fazila, however, will have a treasure chest full of good memories to look back on. “I will miss all my colleagues dearly. The school family and bond we created is very special, filled with happy memories”.
Madam Fazila says helping others, doing good deeds whether others notice it or not, brings her joy in life. “It’s the deeds that matter, not the size of your audience,” says Fazila, who will now have more time to pursue her passions.
* Fazila was born in 1956 in Pretoria (Asiatic Bazaar) and graduated from Roodepoort High School. In later years she met her husband and settled in Roshnee. They were blessed with three children and seven grandchildren (five grandsons and two granddaughters).
