Faculty of Education Honours Retirees at Mthatha Ceremony

The Faculty of Education hosted a retiree celebration ceremony at the Mthatha Health Resource Centre. The event honoured staff members who completed their service and entered retirement. It also recognised their contributions, achievements and long-standing commitment to education.

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Executive Dean Professor Bongani Bantwini led the tributes. He stressed the retirees’ mentorship, resilience and dedication during challenging periods. In addition, he reminded guests that retirement shows a transition, not an end.

“Your going to class days may have ended. But your influence continues in every school where your former students teach. Retirement is a transition, a period to pursue passions you postponed for many years,” he said

Provincial education leadership praises lifelong service

Eastern Cape Department of Education Chief Director for Curriculum Management, Xandu Bula Chulekazi, delivered the keynote address. She honoured the retirees for their lifelong commitment to teaching. She said their work shaped young minds and strengthened the university.

She praised their dedication despite policy changes, resource shortages and shifting demands in the sector. Furthermore, she said their contributions continue through the students they taught and the colleagues they supported.

“We thank you, we salute you and we honour you,” she said. “You helped build this university into an institution that has produced many leaders.”

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Retirees leave a lasting legacy in education

Speakers agreed that the retirees’ influence extends far beyond the classroom. They shaped future teachers. They strengthened departments. They supported generations of students. Their work continues to guide the university.