Late Sibusiso Bengu remembered as a pioneer & for transforming education sector
Many prominent dignitaries paid their last respects at Bengu's funeral at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal.
A special category 2 funeral for former education minister, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, was held at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal on 10 January 2025. Picture: @PresidencyZA/X
JOHANNESBURG - The country's first democratic education minister, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, has been remembered as a pioneer who transformed the education sector and an intellect of his time.
Many prominent dignitaries paid their last respects at Bengu's funeral at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal.
Bengu, who passed away in his sleep at his home last week at the age of 90, was honored with a special category 2 funeral.
Since his passing, SA's first minister of education post-apartheid, Bengu has been recognised as a pioneering leader who helped transform the education system in the country.
READ: Bengu played key role in reversing the legacy of apartheid education - Mashatile
Some dignitaries said the former minister dedicated himself to a cause that transcended borders, uniting people across cultures, ideologies and nations.
"To describe Professor Bengu merely as an academic, a mediator or a peacemaker would be to undersell his essence. He was a statesman of the human spirit, a man who saw not just the brokenness in the world but the infinite potential for healing," said one of the mourners.
His family has expressed gratitude that their father's legacy continues to inspire hope not only to them but across the nation as well.