Molly Zulu, nee Mhlongo, was born in Mahlabathini, Vuthela area in KwaZulu-Natal, the eighth child in a family of 10. She is the principal of Ngqengelele High School, which has 350 learners. The school falls under the Mahlabathini circuit in Vryheid district.
Despite her hectic schedule running the school Zulu still finds time to get involved in community work. Members of the Nsukazi community are the beneficiaries of some of her projects. One of these is a gardening project, which she formed to help fight poverty in the area.
She also started a sewing project where community members sew uniforms for their learners and for neighbouring schools. In her spare time Zulu also teaches women how to read and write.
She is the winner of the 2011 Shoprite/Checkers Women of the Year in the category of education.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Mahlabathini, near Ulundi.
Which schools did you attend?
I started my primary schooling in 1962 at Vuthela Primary School in Mahlabathini. In 1972 I went to Mahlabathini Secondary School and then to Appelsbosch College of Education, where I completed my diploma in 1976.
Who were your favourite teachers?
I had a few favourite teachers but one I remember quite easily is Mr Vivian Ngcobo.
Why were you fond of him?
He was so funny and yet very strict. In standard six we used to learn serious stuff but in a fun way.
What influence did he have on you?
I learned from him not to unnecessarily find fault with my learners. That I should let them know exactly what I need from them and why.
Do you still have contact with him?
Yes, I still have contact with him; he has been a principal in a school next to mine. I phone him sometimes.
What were your favourite subjects at school and why?
It was English and agriculture. I liked English because of the diverse literature material from which we used to learn different and interesting stories. There were also comprehension tests that improved our vocabulary and we used to read newspapers a lot. I liked agriculture because it is very practical and I always considered it part of our lives.
In your view what are the qualities of a good teacher?
A good teacher is:
- Not self-centred
- Empathetic
- A good listener
- Loving and caring
- Very understanding
- Should never show favouritism, must equally help learners.
What are the things a teacher should never do or say?
He or she should never call learners names. Must try to find good from any learner and support those who have weaknesses to overcome them. He or she should never ridicule or discourage those who struggle.
What message do you have for South African teachers?
I want to say to my colleagues out there that they are doing a great job for the nation. I know that it is not easy but let us do it with love. Let us put the future of our learners first, for the benefit of our country — South Africa. What we could not get from our teachers let us give to them with love.