22/09/2026
22 September 2026 will forever remain a special day in the history of B.J. Mnyanda Public Primary School.
Under the leadership of our Principal, Mr Simphiwe Lukasi, the B.J. Mnyanda family proudly welcomed parents, learners, educators, alumni, community members, government officials, partners and distinguished guests to our 70th Anniversary Celebration, hosted under a magnificent marquee erected in our school grounds.
The celebration brought together generations and stakeholders who share a common love for our school and a commitment to its future. We were deeply honoured by the presence of Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, Department of Basic Education Deputy Director-General Dr Naledi Mbude-Mehana, Ward 18 Councillor Makwenkwe Nkululeko, former principals, representatives of the Mnyanda family, government officials and many other distinguished guests.
Our Principal, Mr Lukasi, welcomed guests and reflected on the remarkable journey of our school, paying tribute to the vision of our founder and to all those who have contributed to building B.J. Mnyanda over the past seven decades.
🌟 HONOURING OUR PAST
We remembered and celebrated the generations of learners, educators, principals, parents, families and community members who have written the story of B.J. Mnyanda.
A special historical reflection by former Principal Ms P. Xaluva reminded us of the people and moments that have shaped our institution and cemented its place in the KwaZakhele community.
We were also privileged to receive a special message from Phumzile Mnyanda, representing the family of the late Mr and Mrs B.J. Mnyanda, whose legacy remains forever intertwined with the history of our school.
The unveiling of our 70th Anniversary Commemorative Monument, led by Dr Naledi Mbude-Mehana, Executive Mayor Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, Principal Mr Lukasi, former principals and other dignitaries, was one of the defining moments of the day.
The ceremonial cutting of our 70th Anniversary Cake, together with the presentation of a commemorative portrait to the Mnyanda family and recognition from the Department of Education, added even more meaning to this historic occasion. 🎂
📚 CELEBRATING OUR LEARNERS
At the heart of everything we do are our learners.
We proudly recognised the Top 10 learners from Grade 1 to Grade 7, celebrating their academic achievement, dedication, perseverance and commitment to learning. 🏆📚
Their achievements are a reflection not only of their hard work, but also of the dedication of our educators and the unwavering support of parents and guardians.
We congratulate every learner who was recognised and encourage all our learners to continue to Stand Tall – See Far – Lead with Purpose!
🙏 A CELEBRATION OF PARTNERSHIP
The message throughout today's celebration was clear: the future of B.J. Mnyanda belongs to all of us.
As Executive Mayor Cllr Babalwa Lobishe reminded us, this 70-year milestone must be used to strengthen, uplift and support the school for generations to come.
Our School Chaplain, Bishop Zwai Ntanjana, reminded us of God's faithfulness throughout our journey and encouraged the B.J. Mnyanda community to dream bigger as we look towards the future.
As we reflect on 70 years, we do so with gratitude for where we have come from, pride in where we are today, and renewed determination to build an even brighter future for the generations who will follow.
💙💛 A HEARTFELT THANK YOU
The B.J. Mnyanda family extends its deepest gratitude to all our sponsors, donors, partners and supporters who contributed in so many different ways to making this celebration possible. A special mention to the award winning artist Zain SA who graced our occasion with his mesmerising songs
Your generosity, commitment and belief in our school helped transform this milestone into a truly memorable occasion. We also thank the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Department of Basic Education, School Governing Body, alumni, parents, community organisations, businesses, former educators, past learners and every individual who played a role in making today a success.
To our planning committees, educators, support staff, volunteers, learners and everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes — Siyabulela! Thank you! 🙏❤️
And to our wonderful parents and the KwaZakhele community, thank you for coming out in numbers and making the occasion truly special.
