PRETORIA: President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his sorrow over the death of Professor Sibusiso Bengu, South Africa’s first Minister of Education in the democratic era, who passed away at the age of 90. The President acknowledged Bengu’s significant contributions to transforming the country’s education system and his role as Ambassador to Germany.
According to South African Government News Agency, Bengu died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, 30 December, at his residence in KwaZulu-Natal. President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to Bengu’s family and friends, highlighting the profound impact of his work on the nation’s education and diplomatic sectors.
President Ramaphosa praised Professor Bengu’s efforts in leading the transformation of education during a time of deep divisions within the Government of National Unity. Bengu’s leadership in formulating the Education Act was instrumental in addressing the injustices of apartheid’s unequal education system, which had perpetuated economic exclusion and poverty.
The President noted that the policies implemented under Bengu’s leadership continue to empower individuals and communities across South Africa. Bengu’s legacy endures through initiatives like the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme, which supports the development of historically disadvantaged institutions in higher education.
Professor Bengu’s career began in 1952 as a teacher, and he later founded Dlangezwa High School, serving as its principal. His academic pursuits led him to the University of Zululand, where he was Dean of Students, and eventually to Geneva, where he earned a PhD in Political Sciences. In 1991, he became the first black Vice-Chancellor of Fort Hare University.
Appointed by Nelson Mandela in 1994, Bengu unified 17 fragmented education departments and introduced Curriculum 2005, aiming to dismantle apartheid’s structural inequalities. His diplomatic service as Ambassador to Germany further demonstrated his dedication to South Africa’s global standing.
Bengu’s political journey included serving as Secretary-General of Inkatha yeNkuleleko yeSizwe and working alongside ANC President Oliver Tambo during his exile years. His commitment to justice and equality remained steadfast throughout his life, leaving a lasting legacy of transformative leadership.