Alberton High teacher retires

After having worked as a teacher for three decades and spending half of those years at Alberton High School, Kgwadi Mojapelo has left his passion for teaching for another.

The 56-year-old father of three, who for many years has had learners look up to him, ended his teaching journey as he welcomed a new path in ministry, despite having planned to retire at age 60.

Mojapelo started teaching in 1991 in Limpopo, worked there for 10 years before teaching at Parklands High School, where he taught for four years.

Alberton High later became his new home. He occupied a position as head of science department.
He worked as a Further Education and Training (FET) mathematics and science teacher and was also a deputy chief marker of science for years.

‘Creating other professions through teaching’

Fondly known as Mojo by colleagues, he reiterated that through his teaching profession he has proudly created other professions through the learners he has taught.

“I have produced doctors, teachers, engineers as well as other careers through my work. I don’t regret taking this route. It was God who said it was enough, I now needed to focus on His work. My principal has also gladly understood and welcomed my decision,” he said.

When questioned about his decision to retire from his paying job and following his new path, he said he finds gratitude when people receive salvation and that, to him, is enough.

Mojapelo also regards his teaching profession as a calling and confidently told the RECORD he was tirelessly dedicated to his work.

“Just recently, I received a heartfelt text message from one learner who expressed just how much they will miss me and appreciated my mentorship. Both my colleagues and learners were saddened by my leaving, but they understood that I needed to follow this route,” he said.

Mojapelo has attained great accomplishments in his journey as a mathematics and science teacher.

“In one year, I topped the district by achieving a whopping 67% in one of my subjects. This was also with the help of my colleague, Barbara Bridger, whom I’ve worked closely with. The school prides itself in excellent discipline and good performance,” he said.

Jannie Olivier, school principal, commended Mojapelo for his dedication and said they support him in his future endeavours.