Star Teacher

Ms. Dina Descande

1. Please introduce yourself

I am Ms Dina Descande, born Feris, a teacher at M&K Gertze, where I teach English for grades 10 to 12, including AS levels. I grew up on a farm near Duineveld and was educated at Anna Maasdorp Primary School from grades one to nine. I completed my high school at Dr. Lemmer High School and went to the University of Namibia for my HPEC. I then obtained my BED degree and my BED honours degree at the North-West University in Potchefstroom.

2. When did your journey as a teacher start?

I started teaching in rural areas, which was quite challenging in regards to housing, transport and teaching support. We lived in small rooms with no electricity, and the sanitary facilities were outside, away from the room. Sometimes you had to cook outside, and of course, you had to collect firewood. However, despite all these challenges we enjoyed teaching and the interpersonal relationships with colleagues, learners and the community. The closeness and hospitality of people made it worthwhile to teach in less conducive circumstances or environments.

3. Was teaching always something you wanted to do?

I always wanted to teach because I am passionate about it and because I love working with children. For me, teaching is a calling, not just a job. I never even considered another job.

4. What is the most challenging aspect of being a teacher?

The most challenging aspect is being patient in order to accommodate learners from different cultural backgrounds and all walks of life. You must be hardworking, committed, dedicated, and strive to always lead by example. It’s also crucial to emphasise the importance of moral values like honesty, integrity, dignity and faithfulness.

5. What would you have done had you not become a teacher?

If I had not become a teacher, I would have considered a career in singing and dancing. My late brothers John and Frank were great singers and could play different musical instruments, and, of course, we liked singing together. As for dancing, I consider it to be an exercise.

6. What keeps you motivated and inspired?

My learners are the reason I get up every morning. They inspire me to be the best and to give my best, and it’s so rewarding to see how they progress, how well they performed in my subject, and what responsible citizens they have become. It’s amazing to see how many of them are qualified teachers, nurses, and lawyers.

7. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I like reading my Bible in my free time because, with God, I can do nothing. My philosophy of life is Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I also like going out with friends, and I am a member of the church choir. And I like doing my household chores myself – that also keeps me fit.

8. What is the greatest thing you have ever achieved?

The greatest thing I have achieved was obtaining my honours degree. I had 12 modules and passed eight of them with distinction! It required a lot of sacrifices because I was teaching at school, working after school as a tutor for Namcol, and still had to manage my home.

9. Do you have any motivation for prospective teachers?

Anyone who would like to become a teacher should make sure that they love working with children and are patient, caring, supportive, loving, willing to make sacrifices, and willing to go the extra mile.