School Learners Surprise Their Principal for His Birthday, Mzansi Applauds
- Learners at Topaz Secondary School surprised their principal with a heartfelt birthday celebration
- The video captured the students singing and delivering a warm gesture that highlighted their respect and appreciation
- The touching moment reflected the strong, family-like relationships that can exist between teachers and learners
- Briefly News spoke to teachers Minnie Ndabeni, Ms Pasmene, and Meneer Van Der Berg, who shared insights into the significance of learners surprising their principal for his birthday.
South Africans were moved as Topaz Secondary School learners surprised their principal with a birthday song, showcasing their appreciation and bond.
Source: TikTok
A heartwarming moment unfolded at Topaz Secondary School when learners came together to celebrate their principal’s birthday. A video posted on the school’s TikTok page, @topaz_secondary_school, shows students approaching the principal’s office and breaking into song to wish him a happy birthday.
The simple yet meaningful gesture reflected the strong bonds that can form between teachers and learners. Positive relationships like these create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and encouraged to engage beyond academic interactions. Moments of appreciation from learners also reinforce the dedication and hard work teachers put into guiding and mentoring young minds.
School kindness moments foster community and gratitude
In schools that nurture this kind of culture, learners often develop a sense of respect, empathy, and gratitude. Celebrating milestones such as birthdays might seem small, but these acts of kindness contribute to a sense of community and belonging. For the principal, it likely served as a memorable reminder that his efforts have a meaningful impact on his students.
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The video drew admiration online, with many viewers appreciating how the learners went out of their way to make the day special. It was a beautiful reminder that thoughtful gestures can strengthen relationships and turn ordinary school days into moments that everyone will remember.
The three teachers all agreed that gestures like this go beyond a simple celebration, reflecting the school’s positive culture, emotional intelligence among learners, and the strong bonds between staff and pupils. Such acts, they said, inspire motivation, create a sense of belonging, and show that education is as much about humanity and relationships as it is about academics.
Minnie Ndabeni told Briefly News:
“Gestures like this from learners are incredibly meaningful because they reflect emotional intelligence, gratitude, and a sense of community. It’s not just about a birthday, it’s about learners recognising the efforts and presence of someone who plays a central role in their daily lives. These acts show that relationships in schools go beyond academics.”
“Appreciation has a powerful effect on teachers’ motivation. When learners acknowledge a teacher or principal’s efforts, it reaffirms their impact and reminds them that their work matters, especially on tough days. It also strengthens the bond between staff and learners, creating a culture of mutual respect and kindness.”
“This gesture speaks volumes about the school’s culture. It suggests a space where emotional connection and humanity are valued alongside learning. It shows that learners feel safe, seen, and empowered to express gratitude, which is a strong sign of a positive, supportive environment.”
Ms Pasmene spoke to Briefly News and said:
“Gestures like this are deeply meaningful in a school environment because they show genuine appreciation and respect from learners towards their educators, in this case, the principal. In a setting where schools often become like second homes to our learners, such acts create a sense of family and belonging. It’s not just about celebrating a birthday; it’s about learners showing they value the person who guides and supports them every day.”
“Moments of appreciation can be incredibly motivating for principals and teachers. Education can be challenging, especially in communities where resources are limited, but small acts of kindness remind us why we chose this profession. It strengthens the bond between staff and learners, creating an environment where mutual respect and care thrive.”
“This kind of gesture speaks volumes about the school’s culture. It shows that kindness, gratitude, and togetherness are being taught and lived out daily. It’s a sign of a community-driven school where relationships matter as much as academics, and where learners are growing into compassionate and respectful individuals.”
Meneer Van Der Berg also told Briefly News:
“Gestures like this go far beyond the celebration itself; they show genuine care, respect, and appreciation. It’s those things that one will take to the grave. In a school environment, where relationships are the heart of learning, these moments remind us that education is about people first. It creates a sense of belonging and strengthens the bond between learners and their leaders.”
“When teachers or principals feel appreciated, it reaffirms their purpose and the impact they have. It’s a reminder of why we chose this profession in the first place. Teaching can be demanding, and such gestures serve as powerful reminders of why we do what we do. It boosts motivation, encourages going the extra mile, and nurtures a warmer, more collaborative relationship with learners.”
“It reflects a culture built on kindness, respect, and mutual appreciation. It shows that learners are being taught both through lessons in the class as well as lessons about life. It shows the importance of gratitude and community spirit. A school with this kind of culture is one where learners feel safe, valued, and inspired to contribute positively to society.”
Source: TikTok
Here's what Mzansi had to say
X said:
“Mr Mapholoba has gone soft. Back when he was at Dr BW Vilakazi, he would have already called a parent.”
(X)OngaSolveki commented:
“These 2000s kids are special.”
Lindiwepatty asked:
“Who else shouted ‘yoweeeeee’ when they started singing happy birthday?”
Rorisang said:
“What have you done to Mr Ngcobo? In our days, our parents would have been called the next day.”
TshegoP wrote:
“Sir couldn’t help but smile. This is why I want to quit adulthood and go back to school to enjoy moments like this.”
Nkosinathi Percy Mokoena joked:
“The guy was holding back tears, I could see it.”
Khanyiemchunu101 wrote:
“These kids are brave. We would never just walk into the office for a birthday. We only found out it was the principal’s birthday when someone told us later. We feared counselling more than anything.”
Furniture Place Boksburg said:
“In my school days, the late Mr Chingals was the principal. We wouldn’t even have entered those offices. He made school memorable, though.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Briefly News stories about birthday surprises
- Gigi Lamayne shared a touching behind-the-scenes video of the surprise birthday celebration she planned for her boyfriend.
- An African mom surprised her daughter with a brand-new luxury car worth R900,000, making her 18th birthday unforgettable.
- A young man in South Africa went viral on social media for giving his girlfriend a memorable surprise birthday celebration.
Source: Briefly News
