Super Nkosi's void in education and sport will be hard to fill

Jun 8, 2012 | Zamokuhla Sibisi | 2 comments

MPUMALANGA is mourning the sad passing of Johannes "Super" Nkosi, who died on June 2 after an illness. He will be best remembered as an excellent great-grandfather, grandfather, father, teacher and evangelist.

MOURNED: Johannes 'Super' Nkosi will be buried tomorrow.

Born on October 3, 1931, in Ermelo, he was the son of the late Paulos and Emily Nkosi. Nkosi's primary and secondary schooling and teaching studies took place in Mpumalanga before he moved to Johannesburg in the 1950s.

Nkosi, 81, taught extensively in Soweto.

He started teaching at Mzimvubu Primary School in Meadowlands, then moved to Mmila Primary School in Tladi, Ekphumeleleni Primary School in Jabulani, and then to Zola's Esidlekeni Primary School, now known as Indyebo - and then helped found and lead the I'sulihle Primary School in Zola 3.

His peers often consulted him for advice and direction. Even his seniors in the district offices often relied on his counsel. He was approached many a time for a senior role in the district, which he declined.

"My place is in the school with learners," Nkosi often said.

Nkosi had a bottomless passion for reading. Last year, at the age of 80, he was invited by his former school at their Readathon Day to present the JP "Super" Nkosi accolade for reading.

Nkosi's passion for sports was huge and saw him establish a cricket association for areas including Zola, Zondi, Jabulani and Moletsane in Soweto.

As the vice-principal of the Adult Basic Education and Training centre in Soweto, Nkosi encouraged parents to be able to read and write. He later started a feeding scheme for pensioners around the school.

He was also the secretary of the then Sharp Blackpool Football Club and a great golfer. Nkosi is survived by his spouse, sisters and brothers, 10 children, 22 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will take place tomorrow at the Kopanong Community Hall in Dobsonville at 8am. The burial will be held at the Lenasia Cemetery afterwards.