Cape Town – Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the funeral of Professor Sibusiso Bengu, South Africa’s first Minister of Education in the democratic era, who passed away at the age of 90 in December.
Held at the University of Zululand on Friday, the service paid tribute to Bengu’s legacy as a distinguished educator, diplomat, and servant of the people.
Mashatile highlighted Bengu’s key role in transforming South Africa’s education system, particularly in dismantling the apartheid education legacy.
Bengu introduced major reforms, including the South African Schools Act of 1996 and policies that guided higher education transformation.
“His skills, knowledge and contribution to various sectors of educations showed that he possessed the capacity to revolutionise education by dismantling the dreadful legacies of Apartheid.
@PMashatile | “Professor Bengu has played a key role in shaping education and other social policies, contributing to the transformation of the sector, and most importantly reversing the legacy of apartheid in education.
Those among us who were fortunate enough to work with him,… pic.twitter.com/HAQevOgdmK
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) January 10, 2025
“Thirty years later, our education outcomes are still improving – a testament to the profound impact of this icon. As part of President [Nelson] Mandela’s cabinet, he introduced many key pieces of legislation that shaped our education system.
“Among these are the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education which served as a guide for the government’s efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system,” Mashatile said.
[WATCH] Deputy president Paul Mashatile relishes the legacy of Prof Sibusiso Bengu. He praises his role in the introduction of key pieces of legislation that shaped the current education system in South Africa.#Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/5f6paSqCjc
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) January 10, 2025
Mashatile emphasised Bengu’s belief in the link between education and national development and stressed the importance of continuing efforts to improve access to education.
As the country moves beyond 30 years of democracy, Mashatile affirmed the government’s commitment to policy execution and inclusive economic growth.
He also reiterated the government’s dedication to building a capable, ethical state to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
Mashatile extended condolences to the Bengu family, urging society to follow Bengu’s example of striving for excellence and making a positive impact.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
