Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School in Ga-Madiba, Ga-Mashashane, Limpopo will mark a historic milestone on Friday, 2 October 2026, when it hosts its Golden Jubilee Celebration under the theme “50 Years of Excellence to Victory”.
The event, beginning at 09h00 at the school grounds in Ga-Madiba, Ga-Mashashane, Limpopo, will bring together alumni, educators, community leaders and education stakeholders to celebrate five decades of service, heritage and development.
The Golden Jubilee is more than a commemoration of the school’s journey; it is also a tribute to its namesake, Dr Moses Josiah Madiba, whose legacy continues to shape South African education. Born in Uitvlucht (Mahlwaneng) near Mashashane in 1909, Madiba rose to prominence as a linguist, author and educationist.
His leadership roles at Pretoria Bantu Normal College, Mokopane College of Education and Setotolwane College of Education cemented his reputation as a pioneer in teacher training.
In 1960, he became the first chairperson of the advisory council at the newly established University College of the North, later serving as its first African Chancellor in 1978. Unisa recognised his contributions in 1973 with an honorary Doctor of Education degree.
Though Madiba passed away in 1985, his Sesotho sa Leboa literary works - including Thuto ya Polelo (1941), Tsiri (1942), the Mahlontebe series (1952) and Nkotsana (1955) - remain influential.
His role in chairing the first North Sotho Language Board, later integrated into PanSALB, underscores his commitment to language and cultural preservation. Appropriately, PanSALB Limpopo, Unisa North Eastern Region, the University of Limpopo and the Limpopo Department of Education have confirmed their participation in the Jubilee.
The programme promises a rich blend of historical reflection, cultural and musical performances, alumni contributions and recognition of individuals who have shaped the school’s development.
A highlight will be the keynote reflection by Dr Diphete Bopape, clinical psychologist, author, founder and editor of Seipone newspaper, and respected Sepedi language writer.
His published works, including Makgale (1978), Lenong la gauta (1982), Bogobe bja tswitswii (1985) and Rena Magomotša (1987), have earned him acclaim as a voice of cultural and educational advancement.
The celebration will also align with broader national initiatives. A symbolic tree planting will support the Ten Million Trees campaign, reinforcing the school’s revitalisation trajectory and echoing Madiba’s spirit of community service.
Organisers emphasise that the event is not only about honouring the past but also about inspiring future generations to carry forward the values of excellence, partnership and resilience.
For alumni and former educators, the Jubilee offers a chance to reconnect with the institution that shaped their lives. For the community, it is an opportunity to reflect on the school’s role in opening doors to education and development in Ga-Mashashane.
For the broader education sector, it is a reminder of the enduring impact of leaders like Dr Madiba, whose vision continues to resonate decades after his passing.
Members of the media are invited to attend and engage with stakeholders, alumni and learners to capture the history and future of education in the region. As the school celebrates its Golden Jubilee, it stands as a beacon of heritage and progress - a living testament to the power of education in transforming communities.
For interviews, additional information and media enquiries, please contact: Malesela Maubane. Chairperson: Dr MJ Madiba Secondary School Golden Jubilee Organising Committee +2771 117 0993. malesela.mau@gmail.com
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