By Gerda Potgieter
The Christian-based school in the remote village of Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, Domino Servite School (DSS) marked its 40th anniversary early in May. It was a celebration of four decades devoted to education, character formation, and community development. Founded in 1986 by Rev Erlo Stegen and his wife, Kay, the school has steadfastly pursued its vision. The milestone was commemorated with a special celebration that honoured the school’s history, acknowledged the contributions of educators and alumni, and reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing learners through values-based education.
The event brought together a diverse group of distinguished guests and members of the school community, including the Honourable Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, members of the DSS Board of Directors, KwaSizabantu Mission leadership and co-workers, and current and former learners, parents, and teachers. Their attendance underscored the deep support, shared history, and strong partnerships that have shaped the school over the past forty years.
The Premier paid tribute to “the visionaries who laid this foundation”. He named the parents of the first intake of learners, members of KwaSizabantu who desired an education rooted in strong moral and Christian values. He honoured Rev Erlo Stegen and his wife, Mrs Kay Stegen, whose leadership turned this vision into reality, with Mrs Kay Stegen serving as the founding principal in 1986. He remarked that Domino Servite “stands as a remarkable testament to what South Africa could become even before democracy was realised. During the dark days of apartheid, this institution broke barriers by embracing learners of all races, learning together, playing together and sharing meals. He highlighted that the school’s excellent academic results over four decades have made Domino “no longer just a school—it is a global centre of excellence rooted in KwaZulu-Natal.”
Various speakers shared heartfelt messages that underscored the deep appreciation and unwavering support the school enjoys from its community. They paid tribute to the founders and Dorothy Newelands, the current school principal, who took the baton from them.
More than 250 alumni gathered to perform “Ingummangaliso Imisebenzi kaThixo,” “Uyakubusiswa,” and the school anthem. Among the highlights was a choir and orchestra of more than 350 harmonious voices that filled the venue, creating a powerful, enchanting musical experience that will long be remembered.
DSS has achieved its key objectives of academic excellence, Christian values, discipline, and community life. Dr Elfrieda Fleischmann wrote in a book about the founder of the school, titled Bondservant of Christ, Erlo Hartwig Stegen. She wrote about the school, “God has provided over the years as the school has grown in size and excellence… Throughout the school’s history, DSS has maintained a 100% pass rate for Grade 12 every year.”
As an independent school from Grade RRR to Grade 12. DSS offers both boarding and day scholar facilities. The fees are R75K for tuition and full boarding and R20k for tuition only.
(Visit the websites: www.dss.org.za and www.ksb.org.za)
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