By Doreen Mokgolo
The senseless slaying of Seraka Counsil Mogoswane, the head of the commercial science department at Unity Secondary School in Daveyton on the East Rand, has left the community reeling in shock.
Many he crossed paths with described him as a community builder who went the extra mile for his learners, colleagues and the broader Daveyton population.
He fought to bring unity at his school, fought against the unfair treatment of teachers and represented colleagues in hearings, even when it meant stepping on powerful people’s toes.
The 49-year-old Mogoswane was shot eight times in the head by two armed men outside a tavern in Daveyton last Friday night after meeting with friends.
He had recently been appointed as the head of the school’s commercial science department and served as a site steward for the South African Democratic Teachers Union.
“Seraka fought for labour peace,” said his best friend and colleague Thabo Mohoto.
“When colleagues had challenges at work they would consult him for advice before anyone else.”
Mohoto said Mogoswane went beyond his duties as a site steward as he would represent teachers in disciplinary hearings at the Department of Labour and district offices.
“These criminals killed a man who was both a leader and brother to many of us. They robbed this community of a valuable asset,” Mohoto said.
“We urge the law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned to track down the culprits so they are held accountable for this terrible crime.”
Fraser Komane of the Universal Association of School Governing Bodies said Mogoswane was their point of entry to the school when they were denied access.
“He would take off work to listen to our grievances and address them accordingly,” he said.
Mogoswane started his education at Thulani Primary School and moved to Phulong High School in Springs, Ekurhuleni. He furthered his studies at Ekurhuleni East College and obtained a Certificate in Business Management, Auditing and Commercial Law.
In 2000 he worked as a student assistant for Vista University before moving to Unity Secondary School in 2003 until his death last week.
Mogoswane is survived by his wife, Dineo Mogoswane, four daughters – Tshegofatso, Palesa, Naledi and Kgotso – and son Tiro.
His funeral service is on Saturday 13 April at Marulaneng village, Jane Furse, in Limpopo.
Pictured above: Seraka Counsil Mogoswane.
Image source: Supplied
