Duduza – After decades of dedication to education, Malamlela Nxumalo (60) is closing a remarkable chapter in his life as a principal at Dan Radebe Primary School in Duduza.
The school staff members hosted a farewell party for Nxumalo on March 26.
Nxumalo reflected on his long and impactful journey in education, saying he began his career shortly after graduating from a College of Education.
His first post was at Eketsang Secondary School in 1989, where he served for 10 years.
“During this time, I continued to study and develop myself professionally, working tirelessly to complete my qualifications while teaching.
“It was not easy. There was a lot of struggle and hustle, but I remained focused on improving myself so I could better serve learners,” he said.
Malamlela Nxumalo and his staff members. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Nxumalo’s dedication did not go unnoticed; his continuous training and development, including participation in leadership programmes, caught the attention of his school’s leadership.
This opened the door for him to join the School Management Team, marking the beginning of his leadership journey.
“Although teaching was not initially my planned career, my passion grew naturally over time.
“As a learner, I was influenced by a principal who mentored me and gave me leadership responsibilities at a young age.
“I realised I was called to work with people. Even in school, I found myself helping others understand their work. That is when I knew teaching was for me,” he explained.
Malamlela Nxumalo’s farewell party was on March 26. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
After many years in high school education, Nxumalo transitioned to a primary school environment, a move that reshaped his understanding of education.
“Unlike high school learners, younger children required more care, guidance, and emotional support.
“In primary school, you become more than an educator. You take on a parental role. That changed me completely,” he added.
When he joined Dan Radebe Primary School as principal in 1999, the situation was far from ideal.
The school had no permanent buildings and operated across multiple locations, a system known as platooning.
“Learners were scattered, and resources were limited,” he cited.
One of his biggest challenges was overseeing the construction of the school. He explained that the process was complicated by disputes over land ownership involving local authorities and government departments.
“At times, the situation became tense and even dangerous. It was a life-threatening journey at some point. But I remained committed to ensuring the school was built,” alluded Nxumalo.
Through persistence, collaboration, and community support, the school was eventually constructed.
The school started with a limited number of children, around 400 learners, but has grown to over 1,200. The growth is a testament to the school’s development under Nxumalo’s leadership.
During his tenure, Nxumalo led several key initiatives, including the construction of additional classrooms, the establishment of a science laboratory, and the introduction of an ICT programme to modernise learning.
Staff member and learners sang and performed for their principal. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Despite limited funding, the school found innovative ways to improve resources and enhance the learning experience.
Nxumalo emphasised the importance of community involvement, building strong relationships with parents, sponsors, and stakeholders.
“Through partnerships and fundraising efforts, the school was able to expand its facilities and programmes.
“Sports and extracurricular activities were also encouraged, with learners participating in athletics, soccer, and cricket.
“While challenges such as limited time remained, the school continued to grow its sporting culture,” he explained.
Reflecting on his career, Nxumalo said the most meaningful part of his work has been his connection with learners, especially at the primary level.
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“I will miss interacting with the children the most. They bring so much joy, and being able to support them, even in small ways, meant everything to me,” he added.
As he steps into retirement, Nxumalo has no plans of slowing down. Instead of resting, he intends to remain active in education through training and development in the private sector, continuing to share his knowledge and experience.
He also offered advice to future leaders in education, saying leadership requires integrity.
“It is not easy, and it shapes you over time. Work with your team, not above them. Build others so they can lead as well,” he advised.
Looking back, Nxumalo takes pride not only in the school’s growth but also in the many educators and leaders who have emerged under his guidance.
His journey may be coming to an end in the public education sector, but his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he has touched.
“It has been a long journey, but a beautiful one,” he concluded.
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