Cape Argus

Condolence­s on retired educator’s death

CONDOLENCE­S have been pouring in following the death of retired educator, Abdul Rachart Job, who was the first education area manager for Mitchells Plain and Philippi, and the former chief education specialist at the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

Job died on April 16 at the age of 67 and his janazah (funeral) was performed on Friday.

WCED spokespers­on Millicent Merton said Job was appointed as a teacher at Manenberg High School in 1981. He was promoted to department­al head in 1991 and became the deputy principal in 1994.

He was appointed as area manager of the Mitchells Plain office from January 1, 1996 until June 30, 2001. Job then served as head of governance and management from July 2001 until his retirement in 2016.

In a statement, the Mitchells Plain Bursary and Role Model Trust (MPBRMT) patron, Trevor Manuel, and chairperso­n Achmat Chotia conveyed condolence­s to Job’s family and their appreciati­on for his life’s work.

Chotia said: “The MPBRMT is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our brother and friend, Rachart Job, who passed away on Tuesday afternoon. On behalf of our patron and the board of trustees, we extend our heartfelt condolence­s to Rachart’s wife, Faseega Solomons, and his family.

“Rachart was a very special educationa­list who dedicated his life to the learners and schools serving our communitie­s. After his retirement, Rachart’s passion for education and the upliftment of our communitie­s again came to life through his work with the MPBRMT. We pray Allah will comfort his family during this difficult time.”

Manuel described Job as a committed patriot who served his country and community throughout his life.

“Rachart Job was a man whose selfless commitment to education will be remembered far and wide, especially by those who had the privilege of working with him. The MPBRMT was fortunate to benefit from Rachart’s vast experience and expertise as a teacher and education specialist.”

The cause of death, which may have be due to complicati­ons after a medical procedure, is being investigat­ed.

Job leaves his widow, Faseega, sons Asghaab and Taliep, and four grandchild­ren. Asghaab said: “The common message received was my dad’s passion for upliftment of pupils and teachers.”