Image: Dr Dumisa Reuben Mango proudly displays the award presented to Msukaligwa 1 after it was named Mpumalanga’s best-overall circuit for the 2024 academic year. | Mpumalanga Department of Education
Dr Dumisa Reuben Mango has been honoured for his contribution to education as he bids farewell to the Msukaligwa 1 Circuit and takes up a new position at the Mpumalanga Department of Education’s head office.
A farewell ceremony was held in his honour by Circuit Coordination in the Gert Sibande Education District earlier this year. The event celebrated a leader whose tenure was marked by steady academic improvement, inspirational leadership and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Under Dr Mango’s leadership, the Msukaligwa 1 Circuit’s Grade 12 performance improved from 65.6% in 2021 to 79.5% in 2022 and 88.2% in 2023. The circuit reached a major milestone in 2024 when it achieved a 95.9% pass rate and was named the best-performing circuit among Mpumalanga’s 71 education circuits.
Dr Dumisa Mango and other education officials celebrate their achievements during the Gert Sibande District Grade 12 Awards Ceremony. | Gert Sibande Education District
That year, Msukaligwa 1 was also the only circuit in the Gert Sibande District to produce four secondary schools with 100% matric pass rates. The achievement placed the circuit firmly in the provincial spotlight and set a benchmark for others to follow.
Dr Mango’s record of leadership extends beyond the circuit office. During his time as principal of Ithafa Secondary School, the school reportedly achieved consistent pass rates of 90% and above, further demonstrating his commitment to improving educational outcomes.
While his departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter for the Msukaligwa 1 Circuit, it also signals a new beginning. Dr Mango leaves behind a legacy of discipline, integrity and academic excellence, and his influence will continue to be felt by the educators, learners and communities he served.
As he takes on his new responsibilities at the department’s head office, the Gert Sibande Education District has wished him well and celebrated the lasting contribution he has made to education in Mpumalanga.