School head bows out with enduring legacy

Lunga Dyani arrived at Walmer High School as a young teacher in 1991. He leaves decades later as a beloved principal, bidding farewell to a school he marked with love and discipline - and ever-rising matric results.

- By Nkosazana Ngwadla

Lunga Dyani, the man who helped turn Walmer High School in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, into a beacon of discipline and academic success, has retired — but not quietly.

After 34 years and seven months at the school, 28 of them as principal, Dyani was honoured in a farewell assembly attended by more than 2,300 learners along with staff, alumni and community members.

A red carpet was rolled out for Dyani as he walked through a guard of honour formed by learners and colleagues.

He donned a school uniform, saying it was a symbolic gesture to show solidarity with his learners, a final act of unity with the school community that had been his home since January 1991. "I see myself as a stoic person," he said in his farewell address, "but today was difficult. Holding back tears was harder than most days."

Dyani used the occasion not only to reflect on his journey at the school, but also to share life lessons. Introducing his seven siblings, Dyani emphasised the importance of family, telling learners: "Family is like a shock absorber - they support us in everything we do. No matter what, never turn your back on your family."