News

On November 4, 2022, the multipurpose center for the “St. Catherine's School” in Empangeni (South Africa) was officially opened.

St Catherine’s offers education from pre-primary to matric, and is an important institute of education in Zululand, committed to excellence in education, sports, inter-cultural activities, social activities in the local community, and not least continuing what the Sisters began in the 1950s.

An important date in the school calendar of “St. Catherine's School"

For a number of years there have been no Oakford Sisters living in Empangeni and teaching at the school.  The school however is totally committed to continuing the Catholic ethos, and carrying on the legacy left by the Oakford Sisters. The feast of St Catherine is an important date on the school calendar.

Over many years the demography of the school has changed

In 2021 a new multi-purpose hall was opened, allowing for numerous indoor activities, including some sport.  Over many years the demography of the school has changed considerably and today most students are Zulu-speakers.

“It is a great privilege for us Oakford Dominican Sisters to be here with you on this occasion”, said Sr Paula-Mary van der Walt, Congregational Leader of the Oakford Dominican Sisters, at the Official opening on 4^th November.

“We know of the commitment and dedication of the School Governing Board, the Educators, Learners, Parents and Benefactors of Saint Catherine’s, for many years.

And this evening it is my special honor to “Congratulate” you on your accomplishments; and “Thank You” for all you have invested in the school and for continuing with the Mission of the Oakford Dominican Sisters in the education of our young people.

May God bless this Multipurpose Centre and all who assisted in its creation. May it be a safe space and bring joy and serve the wellbeing of body, mind and Spiritof all who will use it!”