ASHERVILLE — Asherville Secondary School has paid tribute to Ms. Rose Jaftha following her retirement after 18 years of dedicated service to the school and its learners.
The school community gathered on 21 September to honour Jaftha and express its gratitude for her years of hard work, commitment and sacrifice. Teachers, learners, parents, family members and the School Governing Body (SGB) attended the special occasion.
The programme was directed by Johnny Meyer, while Rev. Gysman opened the gathering with a prayer. Among those in attendance were school principal Dr. Elfean Jacobs, educator colleagues, SGB representatives and members of Jaftha’s family. Her brother, Dr. Kosie Haarhoff, and his wife travelled from the Western Cape to attend the celebration. Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, Mr Elvis Swema described the occasion as one filled with mixed emotions, bringing both sadness and happiness as colleagues said farewell to Jaftha.
Swema paid tribute to her 18 years of loyal service, describing her as a pillar of strength who had made a lasting contribution to the school community. For many learners, Jaftha was more than an educator. She was regarded as a second mother—strict when necessary, but also patient, caring and loving towards those in her care. Her retirement marks the end of an 18-year chapter at Asherville Secondary School, leaving behind colleagues and learners who expressed their appreciation for the role she played in their lives and in the school community.
