"Most of you who have gathered here today to celebrate with me were not yet born when I started my teaching career 41 years ago. Work is not about money; it is about passion and the desire to develop the community which you serve. I'm happy that I am going home to rest with clean hands. Throughout my 41 years' service, I have never been warned, charged, or brought before a disciplinary committee. If you want to enjoy your work, love what you do and do everything on time."
These were the words of well-known academic and former school principal Mr Edzisani Edson Mudzuli (65). Mudzuli was addressing fellow school principals, teachers, learners, and invited guests during his retirement function, which was recently held at Tshikuyu Primary School, outside Musina.
Famously known as "His Excellency" by the locals because of his cleanliness, Mudzuli was the principal of Tshikuyu Primary School at the time of his retirement. He started his teaching career in 1980 and taught at various schools, including Tshenzhelani and Mutele Primary School until he joined Tshikuyu Primary School in 1989. In all those schools, he used to ride a bicycle from his home village of Masisi to work because of a transport scarcity, until he could purchase his own car.
Representing fellow principals, the principal of Masisi Primary School, Avheani Mudzielwana, said Mudzuli was an embodiment of dedication and an ambassador of the teaching profession who had served the community with passion. "He was a great colleague who was readily available for any assistance. Although he is retiring today, we will continue to consult him whenever we need advice because he knows all corners of the teaching profession. His dedication and long service will encourage us to serve our country with loyalty."
Domina Munzhelele is a well-known author of books and radio dramas, who was taught by Mudzuli at Mutele Primary School. He said: "He had always been a smart dresser who taught us to stay clean at all times. He enforced punctuality upon us and encouraged us to love education. Today we are independent and able to develop our communities because of his contributions."
In response, Mudzuli said he was sad and happy at the same time. "I am sad because I am leaving the kids that I love so much, but I am happy that I am going for a well-deserved rest. I was born to be a teacher, and I will continue to give young teachers advice whenever possible. I have played my part, and I have no doubt that whoever takes my baton will continue to assist our community to get better education."