LEARNERS and staff at Greenwood Park Primary School are bidding a fond farewell to Ian Africa who has taught and served the school for the past 41 years.
Africa, who was appointed as principal of the school in 2002, also taught a number of subjects to the Grade Sevens at the primary school when he joined in 1982, including history, biology and English.
The 62-year-old has fulfilled many roles within the school in his four decades, including sports master, head of department and acting deputy principal.
Africa, who holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in education, praised the school, staff and learners for their support over the years and his final month as principal of the school.
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“My final day is on February 28, and the staff has organised something special on the day. I do feel that it is time to retire, but I’ve always been happy here. The school has always had a total commitment to education, and I certainly felt the spirit of the school when I joined the staff in 1982. I just grew into the role, and that helped me in my service to education.
“I’m leaving with an immense sense of gratitude that I’ve been able to work in a place with such a supportive community and staff. The learners, staff and parents have really shown a generosity of spirit which has been incredible,” he said.
Africa, who played professional football for Wentworth Leeds United and later Tongaat Crusaders, said he also brought his passion for sports to the fore at Greenwood Park.
“I was fortunate to be surrounded by so many people who also valued sports as a tool for change. Our school has a good tradition in athletics, football, hockey, and in later years, baseball and softball. We had people like former SA Hockey stalwart Marsha Cox (née Marescia) and her mother, Marian, who helped grow the sport. I’m proud of all the athletes this school has produced and will continue to produce, and I feel the school will always be at the heart of this community in the decades to come,” he said.
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