Conquering Mount Kilimanjaro for a worthy cause
Despite stepping into retirement, Mr Ramsahai remains a beloved member of the Montarena family. His affiliation with the school exceeds four decades as he is always willing to reach out and assist the school whenever a clarion call is made.
History will be made at Montarena Secondary as its former principal, 65-year-old Mr A Ramsahai, embarks on an inspiring and grueling eight-day trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, aiming to raise vital funds for the educational facility, which is in dire need of renovations.
Attired in a biker shirt with the inscription of ‘Make Life A Ride’ – words that resonate deeply with his adventurous spirit, the now happily retired Mr Ramsahai recently returned to the corridors of Montarena, where he smiled with great nostalgia, revisiting the school where he made his mark as a star teacher and principal.
He was warmly welcomed by the current principal and close friend, Mrs S Sewjee, who greeted him with open arms as she praised him for his selfless efforts to raise much-needed funds for the school’s upgrades, going beyond the call of duty to make a tangible difference at the educational institution, nestled in the heart of Montford.
“Despite stepping into retirement, Mr Ramsahai remains a beloved member of the Montarena family. His affiliation with the school exceeds four decades as he is always willing to reach out and assist the school whenever a clarion call is made,” said Mrs Sewjee.
Mr Ramsahai will be joined on this remarkable adventure by his proud son, Shayen (now living in the UK), a former pupil and head boy of Montarena Secondary, as they tackle the challenging trek to Mount Kilimanjaro together at the end of September.
“My planning and preparation have officially commenced,” he chuckled. When asked about his training regimen for the upcoming trek, he stated that his process is simple yet effective. “There is no excessive or rigorous training involved. I have been doing a lot of walking – averaging at least 10kms a day. I also embarked on a few hikes in the Drakensberg to help me prepare. I have been doing my research wherever possible, and I can proudly state that I am feeling strong and excited for the challenge that lies ahead,” he enthused.
Mr Ramsahai is no stranger to adrenaline-fueled feats as he took on an 11-day bike ride in the Himalayas, earlier this year, trekking up Um-Ling-La – the highest motorable pass in the world.
ALSO READ: Montarena Secondary soars to new heights with triple celebration
“That was a life-changing experience that I will always remember,” he recalled. He was asked about some of the challenges he could encounter while trekking Mount Kilimanjaro.
“Altitude and the cold weather will definitely be some of the challenges. The weather can reach -25 degrees, so this would be the first time that I will be exposed to such harsh weather conditions. Another challenge is the fact that we will be doing a lot of walking in the dark. However, with the expertise of the guides and porters, I am sure that these aspects will not pose as obstacles in this journey,” he added.
So what is his target? “I aim to raise at least R50, 000. I encourage all former staff members, former pupils, and well-wishers to support this worthy cause. Your kind contributions will have a positive impact on this historic school, which has produced great academics. By contributing, you will assist the school in continuing with its culture of producing fine men and women who make successful strides in various fields. Businesses and organisations are also encouraged to come forward and assist. The idea is to bring Montarena Secondary back to its former glory, and we can only do this with your help and generosity,” he shared.
Mr Ramsahai had words of support, comfort, and love for his Montarena family. “To the staff: I understand that there are times when you feel challenged to the fullest, however, remember that you are heroes and heroines! Hang in there – your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed! You are an inspiration! To the pupils of Montarena Secondary: Continue to make us proud! I wish you the best in your upcoming exams. This trek is in honour of you,” he said.
After the passing of his beloved wife, Mr Ramsahai found solace and peace in an adrenaline-fueled lifestyle, embracing adventure and prioritising health and fitness.
What is his advice to members of the community who have faced adversity? “There is life afterwards. Make life a ride,” he concluded. Contribute to the worthy cause by using the following banking details: Account name: Montarena Secondary, account number: 1322 0349 31, bank: Nedbank, account type: cheque, branch code: 132 226, and reference: Your name/ Kili.
