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Dedicated teacher, disciplinarian of note

HENDRICK Modise Koopa, who died on July 29 at the age of 82 after a short illness, was a dedicated teacher. He nurtured many young people, some of whom are today lawyers, teachers, doctors and businesspeople.

HENDRICK Modise Koopa, who died on July 29 at the age of 82 after a short illness, was a dedicated teacher. He nurtured many young people, some of whom are today lawyers, teachers, doctors and businesspeople.

He was a disciplinarian and a no nonsense principal of Sediba-Thuto Higher Primary School in Mapetla Extension, Soweto.

His discipline did not end with the pupils. Even teachers often faced his wrath .Teachers such as "Mistress" Thebe, "Mistress" Kgomane, "Meneer" Matshidiso and "Meneer" Kgasoe can attest to Koopa's commitment to orderliness and good behaviour.

Koopa was born on April 10 1927. He started his teaching career in 1948 at Rosterventer in Hammanskraal.

He later moved to Johannesburg where he taught at Isaacson Primary in Rockville, Soweto.

Because of his diligence and hard work, he appointed headmaster at Sediba-Thuto in 1968.

This is where he spent the better part of his life until he retired in 1993.

Even long after his retirement his former pupils and members of the community continued to call him "Principal", showing the great respect the people of Mapetla had for him.

Koopa will be buried at Lenasia Cemetery tomorrow. The funeral service will be held at his home at 1005 Moefi Street, Mapetla, from 7am.

The cortege will leave for the cemetery at 10am.

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