By Everson Luhanga
She worked as a cleaner at a school for 24 years. At the age of 41, she decided to improve her life by furthering her studies while still doing the cleaning at Boitumelong Secondary School in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni – which was once attended by former MEC for Education and current Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.
After obtaining her degree in education for foundation phase learners (Grade R to Grade 3) Lindiwe Mnisi from Tembisa thought her dream to work as a teacher would come true.
But since she graduated in 2016, Mnisi said her hopes of finding her dream job are diminishing.
Speaking to Scrolla.Africa from her cleaning office at Boitumelong Secondary, she said she loves young children and is passionate to impart knowledge to them through teaching.
She said she couldn’t further her education when she was young because she was the firstborn in her family and she took the responsibility of taking care of her three young siblings, as their parents were not present to fend for them.
“I wasn’t happy to drop out of school at a young age. I promised myself that I would write my matric examinations when I get a chance, and become a professional teacher.”
After obtaining her matric certificate, she was given a bursary by the school to study further and acquired a degree in teaching Grade R to Grade 3.
Lindiwe said all she wants now is just to fulfill her dream. “I will be the happiest person if I can get a job as a teacher,” she said.
She said she had had no luck in finding a job. “I have been to almost all schools in Ekurhuleni, submitting my qualifications and CV, with no response.
She said the only time she was called for an interview was in 2021, when she competed with someone who was already working at the same school. That person was appointed. “After that, I made several door-to-door visits in many locations, without success,” she said.
Pictured above: Lindiwe Mnisi from Tembisa has not gained a teaching position, although she has all the required qualifications
Photo source: Everson Luhanga
