Anna Mahase (1932/1933 – 24 May 2024) was a Trinidadian educator and administrator whose dedication and passion for education left an indelible mark on Trinidad and Tobago. As the principal of St. Augustine Girls’ High School and the commissioner of teaching for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, her contributions to education and public service were unparalleled. Her life’s work continues to inspire future generations.
Early Life and Education of Anna Mahase
Born in the village of Guaico, Trinidad, Anna Mahase was destined for greatness from the start. Her parents, Kenneth Mahase and Anna Mahase Sr., were both educators who significantly influenced early education in rural North East Trinidad. Her mother was notably the first Indian woman to become a teacher in Trinidad and Tobago in 1918, a trailblazer in her own right.
Anna Mahase attended Guaico CM School (now Guaico Presbyterian Primary School) before moving on to Naparima Girls’ High School in San Fernando.
Anna Mahase’s thirst for knowledge then took her to Mount Allison University in New Brunswick, Canada, where she earned a BSc and a BEd. She later received honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from both Mount Allison University and the University of the West Indies (UWI), reflecting her outstanding contributions to education.
A Stellar Career in Education
Upon returning to Trinidad and Tobago, Anna Mahase made history by becoming the first local woman to be appointed headteacher of St. Augustine Girls’ High School (SAGHS).
Her leadership and innovative ideas set a new standard for secondary education in the country. Her tenure at SAGHS was marked by numerous achievements, including the establishment of the school’s Parents-Teachers Association and the introduction of various sporting activities for girls.
Mahase’s influence extended beyond SAGHS. She served on the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) and various special committees governing examinations across the island, playing a crucial role in modernizing the nation’s examination system.
Her dedication to holistic education ensured that students were not only academically successful but also well-rounded individuals, involved in cultural and sporting activities.
Recognitions and Awards
Throughout her career, Anna Mahase received numerous accolades for her exceptional service. She was awarded the Medal of Merit (Gold) in 1976 and the Chaconia Medal (Gold) in 1990, recognizing her contributions to education and public service.
In 2012, she was honored as one of the top 50 individuals for excellence in education and distinguished public service to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Trinidad and Tobago’s independence.
Her accolades, however, tell only part of her story. The honorary degrees from UWI and Mount Allison University highlighted not just her achievements but also the sacrifices she made in pursuit of educational success.
Her commitment to learning and extracurricular activities during her university years, including debates, volunteering, music, and sports, demonstrated her belief in the value of a well-rounded education.
Legacy of Equality and Excellence
Anna Mahase’s approach to education was rooted in the principles of equality and holistic development. She firmly believed in treating all students equally, rejecting the notion of streaming pupils or grooming select students for scholarships. Instead, she focused on achieving high pass rates and fostering a supportive environment where students could thrive academically, culturally, and athletically.
Her policies and initiatives at SAGHS turned the school into a beacon of hope and a pillar of academic success, empowering girls to explore opportunities beyond societal bounds. Mahase’s leadership ensured that every student had the chance to excel and grow, creating a lasting impact on the lives of countless young women.
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