Teacher, community leader who produced professionals

MAHLANE DAVID KGOPA BORN: July 2 1955 DIED: June 17 2016 BURIED: June 25 2016 BURIAL: Turfloop, Toronto Cemetery

MAHLANE David Kgopa of Turfloop in Polokwane, Limpopo, has died.

Kgopa, who produced professionals in various fields, is regarded by his community as an intellectual giant.

He was born on July 2 1955 at Thabakgone, Ga-Mmamabolo. He was the fifth child of the late Mothupi and Sefura Kgopa.

After his education at Thabakgone Primary School, he went to Tshebela Secondary School and later gained his teaching diploma at Setotolwane College of Education at Gamasasane village, Limpopo.

Kgopa’s teaching career, spanning 37 years, began in 1978 at Ramphelane Secondary School in Manganeng, Sekhukhune.

He joined Mokhulwane Secondary School before being appointed principal of Ngwanammala Secondary in 1987.

He is credited with producing many professionals in Limpopo and in the Ga-Nchabeleng community in particular during his long teaching career.

He obtained a BA degree from Unisa and a Masters at Wits University.

He went to Sweden to further his studies in history. On his return, he joined the Limpopo department of education.

Kgopa, who is survived by his wife Alwin, three children and a granddaughter, was buried on June 25 at Turfloop’s Toronto cemetery.