Vagabond Principal: Dodging Bullets – James Wandile Makhubu

A5, 259p.

A true story of triumph over adversity and the guts to prove a point against all odds. After struggling to establish an outcast school for children who had been rejected by the system, that very place of learning rose to unforeseen heights, becoming one of the best in the country. The behind-the-scenes battles to keep Unity High School relevant and preferred was expected to derail the mandate and covenant the principal had made with the community.

“A place of solidarity and educational excellence, Unity High School has been in existence for more than 26 years, and it continues to live up to the ideals on which it was founded.”

Jo-Mangaliso Mdhlela – The Sowetan newspaper (28 November 2018)

“Vagabond principal emerges victorious regardless of its pupils’ poor background…”

Gabi Falanga – The Star newspaper (8 January 2016)

“From teaching under a tree to leading one of Gauteng’s top township schools, Unity Secondary School principal retires, leaving a proud legacy of hard work and achievements.”

Bhelinda Pheto – Sunday Times (25 February 2021)

James Wandile Makhubu is the multiple award-winning principal, including Excellence in Secondary School Leadership (2012/13), Life Time Achievement (2016/17), and Kadar Asmal Excellence in Leadership Award (2018/19). He has helped establish many schools, including Unity High, with the help of the community members to assist abandoned learners in the townships.

He holds Bsc(ed) Unin, BEd( Wits) and Master of Science(ed) cum Laude ( NIU-USA) degrres. and is a sought-after motivational speaker and master of ceremonies.

“But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and its righteousness, and all these things shall be added.”

Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)

Thank you Holy Spirit.