This week, the Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School community bids a heartfelt farewell to Mrs Mtsi, our beloved IsiXhosa teacher, who has devoted 23 years of service to nurturing language, culture, and confidence in generations of Rustybugs.
In reflecting on her journey, Mrs Mtsi shared that her path in education was not always straightforward.
“When I left my first teaching post in Khayelitsha, I believed my journey in education had come to an end. The challenges I faced at the time left me questioning whether teaching was truly my calling.”
But fate had different plans. While still considering the next chapter of her life, she came across an isiXhosa teaching position at Rustenburg, a moment that would define the next two decades of her career.
What began as uncertainty evolved into a 23-year journey marked by purpose, passion, and profound impact.
Throughout her time at RGJS, Mrs Mtsi taught isiXhosa from Grade R to Grade 7, moving gracefully from classroom to classroom. Seeing learners make a genuine effort to speak isiXhosa has been one of her greatest joys. Her dedication helped build strong foundations for language appreciation and cultural understanding among Rustenburg learners.
A significant milestone came in 2018, when the school opened a dedicated isiXhosa classroom. The addition of a second isiXhosa teacher allowed the subject to be introduced formally as a First Additional Language in Grade 1, strengthening the department and enriching the school’s language offering.
One of the highlights of her time at RGJS has been the introduction of a new school song written in three languages, including isiXhosa. This achievement reflects her commitment to representation, inclusivity, and celebrating diversity.
As the isiXhosa department continues to grow, with an additional teacher recently appointed to help manage the workload, Mrs Mtsi expressed sincere gratitude to the school’s management and leadership for supporting and strengthening mother-tongue teaching at RGJS.
Her farewell message is one that truly captures the spirit of Rustenburg:
“Once a Rustybug, always a Rustybug.”
The relationships she has formed with learners, colleagues, and the broader school community are, in her words, “invaluable and will be treasured always.”
As we say goodbye, we extend our deepest thanks to Mrs Mtsi for her unwavering dedication, warmth, and professionalism. Her legacy will continue to live on in the isiXhosa department and in the hearts of the many Rustybugs whose lives she has touched.
Enkosi kakhuuuuulu, Mrs Mtsi.
You will always remain part of the RGJS family.
