Remembering the Life of Professor Sibusiso Bhengu, a National Treasure

The late Professor Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emanuel Bhengu, a University of Zululand (UNIZULU) alumnus who was the first minister of education in post-apartheid South Africa, was laid to rest on Friday, 10 January 2025.

A lauded education champion whose name will echo for ages owing to his countless strides, Prof Bhengu was granted a Special Official Funeral Category 2. The service was held in UNIZULU’s King Bhekuzulu Hall, attended by multiple high-profile guests including among others Deputy President Honourable Paul Mashatile, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande (who was one of the two programme directors), KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli and former home affairs minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.

Dr Dlamini-Zuma described Prof Bhengu as a humble individual who possessed stellar leadership skills. “He led with integrity, humility and was ethical. He respected everyone; therefore it was easy to work with him. If we could pay tribute to him by just following him, this country would be better,” she highlighted.

She added: “He bequeathed to this country a better place, a better country than the one he found. Condolences to the family. Be consoled that he represented the Bhengu clan well. He represented the country well.”

According to Dr Sithembiso Bhengu, faith, education and being of service to people are key for the Bhengu family. These elements were thus integral in the late professor’s excellence in his various roles. Dr Bhengu urged all leaders in the country to emulate Prof Bhengu’s leadership style as this will contribute positively to the betterment of the country. He emphasised this point by quoting the book of Exodus 18:21 which encourages selecting leaders who are capable, fear God, are trustworthy and hate selfish gain.

Relaying a message from the Presidency, Honourable Mashatile noted that the passing of Prof Bhengu was a great loss for the country as he was a distinguished educator, a diplomat and a servant of the people.

“He played a key role in shaping education and reversing the legacy of apartheid. Those who worked closely with him will never forget his passion for social justice. As a champion of education, he was instrumental in demolishing the apartheid education system. He never accepted a position out of self-interest.

On behalf of UNIZULU, the University Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Xoliswa Mtose handed over a gift to the Bhengu family. This was to honour the fallen hero for his unequivocal contributions to the education sector in post-apartheid South Africa. She also underscored that the University has benefitted immensely from the fund named after the late education advocate.

• Naledi Hlefane

       Picture: supplied