Having scaled the heights of life, a summit of which I reached having climbed the ladder of success step-by-step, I look back at the role that my township Alma Matar Naledi High School played in shaping me to be a kind of man I became.
Naledi High School was a place of growth and discovery. It challenged me, shaped my values, and gave me lasting friendships. Looking back, I’m grateful for the lessons both inside and outside the classroom that helped me become who I am today.
I want to state this as a former learner of Naledi High School, as well as someone deeply proud of the legacy this school carries. Naledi is more than just a place of learning. It is a symbol of resilience, achievement, and community.
Our school has its own rich history, and it is our duty to recognize and preserve it. We must not overlook the events that shaped us, both the joyful and the painful, but rather embrace them as part of our collective journey.
During my time at Naledi, I witnessed moments that left lasting impressions. Among them was the devastating tragedy involving our fellow students and a beloved teacher who lost their lives during a school vacation to Mozambique. That loss was deeply felt by all of us, and it reminded us of the preciousness of life and the strength of our unity in times of sorrow.
Yet, even in the midst of heartbreak, we also experienced moments of great pride. I remember vividly the excitement and honor when our soccer star boys were selected to participate in the Sir Stanley XI tour to Brazil. That achievement not only put Naledi High on the map but also inspired us to dream beyond the walls of our classrooms.
Another defining feature of our time was the strong culture of protecting our girls. In a community that often faced threats from marauding gangsters in and around Naledi, we stood together as brothers and peers to shield and support our sisters. That spirit of solidarity and respect must continue to be part of Naledi’s identity.
We must also recognize the significance of June 8, a powerful and often overlooked moment in our history. The events of that day served as a precursor to the national uprising of June 16.
On that fateful day, during lunchtime, two members of the Security Branch arrived to arrest a student, Enos Ngutshana. His alleged crime? Writing a letter to the Minister of the Department of Bantu Education, Mr M.C. Botha.
In the letter, he had clearly warned about practical challenges that the introduction of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction would pose, highlighting serious problems for both students and the school. He cited, among other concerns, the shortage of qualified teachers in Afrikaans, the difficulty of teaching science subjects in that language, the lack of libraries, and the students’ limited proficiency in Afrikaans.
Instead of responding to his concerns, the authorities sent the police to arrest him. But the students would have none of it. A serious skirmish broke out. In the chaos, the police vehicle was overturned and set ablaze.
It is, therefore, critical that we, as Naledi alumni and community members, observe June 8 as a special day, a day that belongs uniquely to Naledi High School and its enduring contribution to the broader struggle.
My brothers and sisters, Naledi’s story is not just about the past. It is about the legacy we carry into the future. Let us continue to uplift each other, celebrate our milestones, and ensure that the history of Naledi High School is never forgotten.
Thank you.
Brigadier General (retired) Jackie Khanye.
