Teachers and learners from Basizeni Special School in eMbalenhle cried when they bid farewell to Mr Paulos Masilela, gatekeeper.
Learners were singing and dancing and said they will no longer have someone to chase them around the school when they are naughty.
Mr Masilela was said to have been the best gatekeeper who took his job seriously and arrived at work on time to make sure he opens the gate for everyone.
Ms Makkie Ngakatau referred to him as a father and a friend who was always ready to help everyone.
Some teachers said they realised they had the best gatekeeper when they visited other schools and had to wait for a long time for the gate to be opened.
Ms Florence Thabani, a teacher, said the day she began working at the school, Mr Masilela was the first person she met.
He also taught her how to drive a car.
Mr Masilela had 24 years of service at Basizeni Special School and thanked the staff for the good relationship they had with him.
His final words were that people think being a gatekeeper is easy, but it is not.
“Some people are in bad mood when they arrive and others already judge you, but as the gatekeeper you should always be approachable,” said Mr Masilela.
The principal said Mr Masilela’s transport to school was not available and he arrived late at school.
“Because he was not used to being late, one could see that he was very sorry and distracted,” added the principal.
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