Memorial Service to be Held for South Africa’s First Education Minister, Prof. Sibusiso Bengu on Thursday

South Africa is set to bid a final farewell to one of its great leaders and education reformists, Prof. Sibusiso Bengu. The former Education Minister, who was instrumental in shaping the country’s education system post-apartheid, passed away on Sunday at the age of 76. As the nation mourns his loss, a memorial service has been scheduled for this Thursday to honor his legacy and contributions to the nation’s education sector.

The memorial service will be held at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Great Hall in Johannesburg, where Prof. Bengu spent a significant part of his illustrious career. The ceremony is expected to be attended by dignitaries, colleagues, friends, and family of Prof. Bengu, who will pay their respects and share fond memories of the late leader.

Prof. Bengu was born in the small rural town of Matatiele in the Eastern Cape in 1943. He went on to become a prominent academic, holding a PhD in education from the University of California, Berkeley. He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fort Hare and the University of Transkei, cementing his position as a leading figure in the country’s academic circles.

In 1994, Prof. Bengu was appointed as South Africa’s first post-apartheid Education Minister under the newly elected President Nelson Mandela. He played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s education policies and oversaw the implementation of free education for all and the transformation of the education system to be more inclusive and representative of all South Africans.

During his tenure, he also launched the National Qualifications Framework, which aimed to provide quality education to all South Africans and recognized the importance of lifelong learning. He believed that education was the key to unlocking the country’s potential and promoting social and economic development.

Prof. Bengu’s legacy in the education sector is unparalleled. He was a visionary leader who spearheaded the transformation of the education system, leading to greater access and opportunities for all. He was also a firm advocate for social justice and equality, and his contributions have had a lasting impact on the country’s education landscape.

As the nation mourns the passing of this great leader, it is also a time to celebrate his life and the positive impact he has made on the lives of countless individuals. Prof. Bengu’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations to strive for excellence and to use education as a tool for positive change.

In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to Prof. Bengu, saying, “we have lost a great leader, a champion of education, and a patriot.” He also extended his condolences to Prof. Bengu’s family, friends, and colleagues, urging them to take comfort in the fact that his contributions will never be forgotten.

The memorial service on Thursday will be a fitting tribute to Prof. Bengu’s life and achievements. It will be a time to remember and honor his legacy, and to reflect on the impact he has had on the nation’s education system. The service will also serve as a reminder of the importance of education and the role it plays in shaping the future of our country.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, strict safety protocols will be in place at the memorial service to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees. The service will also be broadcast live on various media platforms, allowing the nation to pay their final respects to Prof. Bengu.

As we bid farewell to Prof. Bengu, let us remember his words, “education is the greatest gift we can give to our children.” He has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come, and for that, we are eternally grateful. Rest in peace, Prof. Sibusiso Bengu, your impact will never be forgotten.