Principal Thabile Kunene, from Gxulu Primary School in Libode, was described as someone who brought unity to Gxulu parents and teachers.
He was the former Eastern Cape chairperson of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU).
Kunene passed away on April 15, 2023 and was buried from his home at Xilinxa A/A in Ngqamakhwe, on April 29, 2023. His memorial service was held at Zamukulungisa WSU Campus in Mthatha, recently.
School Governing Body (SGB) secretary, Zameka Gwa-yise, said the school and community members were heartbroken by his passing, because he brought a lot of changes to the school.
“He joined our school as the principal in 2002; at that time it is alleged that its situation was very bad, but when he arrived, he brought it to the highest standard. He loved unity and respected everyone, including learners,” said Gwayise.
She added that he built a strong relationship between parents and teachers and Kunene made sure that teachers and parents would play a major role in building the future of learners.
“Learners were not even reporting to us when they had problems; they always preferred him to us. We appeal to the department to ensure that they replace him immediately because our school is very big. We cannot operate without a principal.”
Nomgcobo Phika, a member of the School Management Team (SMT), described Kunene as someone who was always willing to assist, and never afraid that someone else would take his position.
She said even though he was a politician he used to make sure that he balanced both schoolwork and his politics.
“We are united today because that is what he taught us. Our school is well known, not here only, but all over, because he made sure that he put it on the map.
“As SMT members we have lost a friend, someone always willing to listen and to advise when needed to do so,” said Phika.
MEC for the Department of Education, Fundile Gade, said life is full of surprises. He said there are things that cannot be changed.
“We thank his family for giving us an opportunity to know him better by working with us. He never disappointed us.
“We have lost a leader and a father. Maybe his departure must be a lesson to us that we must do our best as he did while he was with us,” said Gade.
