Acaciavale Primary School in Ladysmith is celebrating a milestone. Three teachers, Suri Kathan (deputy principal), Sumita Maharaj (acting head of department), and Farhana Choonawala (teacher) have seen three decades of unwavering service to school. The trio started their teaching career on 23 January 1995, marking a shared journey of three decades of commitment and friendship.
Their bond, however, goes beyond their professional accomplishments. The three teachers met at the Springfield College of Education in Durban, where they studied together from 1991 to 1994. Over the years, their friendship has grown stronger, enriched by their shared experiences and memories.
“It is overwhelming and hard to believe that my colleagues and I are standing here, celebrating thirty years,” said Sumita Maharaj. Reflecting on her journey, Farhana Choonawala added: “It has been a great journey filled with challenges, joys, and even moments of sadness. I am proud of myself and the countless young lives I have managed to inspire.”
Suri Kathan expressed humility and pride in their milestone. “This is APS. It is our family. We are a family, and we have witnessed our school grow by leaps and bounds,” she said.
All three teachers emphasised their gratitude for the growth they have witnessed, both personally and professionally. They shared how they have seen APS flourish alongside the evolution of democracy in South Africa, making them witnesses to historical moments in education.
Maharaj highlighted a personal career milestone ast the achievement of her master’s degree. She recalled a particularly challenging time when a severe hailstorm damaged the school, requiring it to be relocated temporarily. Despite the chaos, her colleagues surprised her with a celebratory tea to mark her academic success.
Choonawala recalled one of her proudest moments when a pupil of hers achieved the highest mark and received an award at the GT Excellence Awards. “This is what makes it all worth it—when our pupils excel and carry forward what we have taught them,” she said.
The trio also reflected on the joy of seeing generations of families pass through the school. “It’s a special feeling when parents, who are now grandparents, return to the school where we also taught them,” they shared.
Looking ahead, the three friends expressed their excitement for the future. “We are family here and best friends, and I wouldn’t want to share this journey with anyone else,” said Kathan.
The teachers’ dedication and camaraderie are a testament to their passion for education and the enduring impact of their shared journey at Acaicavale Primary School.
