On Wednesday 22 February at 10h30 the official opening ceremony for The Victor Daitz Maths and Science Centre was held in the new Science Lecture Room. It was a very special occasion and a significant day in our School’s history. We hosted many Trustees and members of The Victor Daitz Foundation, Mr BH Ntuli, our District Director, members of the Durban High School Governing Body, members of The DHS Foundation, prominent Old Boys, Principals and staff from various schools in Durban, members of the press, contractors involved in the project and the staff of Durban High School.
Mr Mike Fennell welcomed everyone to the function and then introduced Mr Louis Arde. Mr Arde recalled several stories of staff and boys from the past and what they got up to in the Science Block. Our Head Boy, Phendulani Buthelezi, then outlined the life and career of Mr Victor Daitz and his tremendous contribution to society but especially in the fields of Maths and Science. Mr Winston Owen, Chairman of the SGB then thanked The Victor Daitz Foundation for their generous contribution to Durban High School.
Mr Sam Abrahams, the Chairman of The Victor Daitz Foundation then gave an emotional address about his days at Durban High School and thanked all of his Trustees.
Mr Alan Norton then thanked Mr Abrahams and his fellow Trustees on behalf of the staff and learners of Durban High School for the fantastic facility. Mr Norton also thanked the various contractors, professionals and his staff who had been involved in the project from its planning stages, especially Mr Len Girodo. Ms Jeanette du Preez and her committee were thanked for organizing the function.
Mr Abrahams and his fellow Trustees then moved to the double doors at the main entrance of the Centre and cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the building.
All guests were then invited to walk through the facility before heading to The Seabrooke’s Theatre Foyer where music, tea and eats were served.
On the evening of Thursday, 23 February the school participated in the D&D Gala and we came 6th out of six schools. All our swimmers gave their best in the pool and our supporters on the stands supported their team with great passion. I was very proud of our young gentlemen that night!
Alan Norton
Acting Head Master
