Cape Town – Celebrated South African science and maths teacher William Smith passed away at 85 in Perth, Australia, after a brief battle with cancer.
Renowned for his award-winning maths and science lessons on television through the Learning Channel, Smith was praised for breaking racial barriers in education during apartheid.
In 2019, he was honored with the National Order of the Baobab by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Take a look at some of the reactions on social media
We extend our condolences to South Africa’s favourite teacher, William Smith. He has died aged 85 after a short battle with cancer. #RIPWilliamSmith pic.twitter.com/lXmQ9wp97h
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) August 21, 2024
RIP William Smith, South African legend 🇿🇦
When KTV wasn’t on, I used to watch this guy teach Algebra even though I had no idea what was going on. pic.twitter.com/HijzPR4ASt
— The Kiffness (@TheKiffness) August 21, 2024
Most South Africans from multiple generations owe their educational success in maths & physics to the great teachings of William Smith who just passed away from cancer. He embodied this:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”— Nelson Mandela pic.twitter.com/0pCLNN62Jb— Paballo Chauke (@ChatWithChauke) August 21, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of William Smith. He made such a difference for Maths and Science learners far and wide. William will also be fondly remembered for promoting tourism in Knysna along with his wife Jenny. From the Brand of Knysna to Featherbed and the ferries,… pic.twitter.com/HMZJJmUImY
— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) August 21, 2024
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
