Lukau Primary celebrates 102 years of existence

One of the oldest schools in South Africa, Lukau Primary, recently celebrated 102 years of existence.

The celebration, which took place at the school premises, was attended by Limpopo Education MEC Mr Ishmael Kgetjepe. Former principals, teachers and pupils of Lukau also attended the event.

Kgetjepe praised the school for producing students who became leaders of the community at different levels. He also used the opportunity to condemn the burning of schools in Vuwani and surrounding areas. "No amount of anger will ever justify the destruction of property,” he added.

"How are we going to produce eminent persons that this school has produced over the years if education continues to be caught in the crossfire every time there is a public protest? We will not be able to produce media personalities and leaders of the character of the late Victor Ravhuanzwo," said Kgetjepe.

According to the chairperson of the school governing body, Mr Vincent Mariba, the school was established by Lutheran Church missionaries in 1914. It started with two classrooms and 210 learners from different areas within Mutale as there was no other primary school in the area. The nearest primary school was at Maungani, also started by Lutheran missionaries.

Mariba also mentioned that Mr Madock Ravhuanzo was the principal and in 1977 the school moved from its original location across the road, where it is situated at present. Parents built some of the classes of the current school, which now has 414 pupils, 10 teachers and an acting principal.

Date:17 June 2016

By: Ndivhuwo Musetha

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