President Cyril Ramaphosa
By Lerato Mpembe
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed profound sadness at the passing of Professor Sibusiso Bengu, South Africa’s inaugural Minister of Education in the democratic era. Prof Bengu passed away peacefully in his sleep on 30 December 2024, at the age of 90.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Public Service
Born on 8 May 1934 in Kranskop, Natal, Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emmanuel Bengu embarked on a lifelong journey in education and public service. He began his teaching career in 1952 and, in 1969, founded Dlangezwa High School near Empangeni, serving as principal until 1976. His commitment to education led him to pursue a PhD in Political Science at the University of Geneva, completed in 1974. In 1977, he was appointed a professor at the University of Zululand.
Prof Bengu’s political involvement included serving as Secretary-General of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). However, due to ideological differences, he parted ways with the IFP and later aligned with the African National Congress (ANC). In 1991, he became the first black Vice-Chancellor of Fort Hare University, a significant milestone in South Africa’s academic landscape.
Leadership in Democratic South Africa
In 1994, following South Africa’s first democratic elections, Prof Bengu was appointed Minister of Education in President Nelson Mandela’s Government of National Unity. During his tenure, he spearheaded transformative policies aimed at dismantling the apartheid-era education system, striving for equal access to quality education for all South Africans. His efforts were instrumental in laying the foundation for an inclusive educational framework in the new democratic dispensation.
After serving as Minister of Education until 1999, Prof Bengu was appointed South Africa’s Ambassador to Germany, where he served with distinction until 2003, strengthening diplomatic relations between the two nations.
President Ramaphosa’s Tribute
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to Prof Bengu’s family, stating: “My thoughts are with Mama Funeka and the family with whom we are united in this loss.” He lauded Prof Bengu as a pioneering leader who played a pivotal role in transforming South Africa’s education system during a time of deep divisions. The President remarked, “The Education Act formulated under Prof Bengu’s leadership and adopted by our fledgling Parliament was a cornerstone of our liberation and unleashed the human potential of all South Africans.”
The President also highlighted Prof Bengu’s enduring legacy through the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme, which aims to advance historically disadvantaged institutions in higher education, fostering a diversified post-school education and training system. He concluded, “Today we are grateful for Prof Bengu’s diverse contributions to our development, which will light our way forward. We reflect as well on his life of faith which inspired his commitment to restoring the dignity of all South Africans.”
Family and Community Reflections
The Bengu family, in a statement, expressed their deep loss, remembering Prof Bengu as a dear husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and educator. They have requested privacy during this difficult time and indicated that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. 
Community members and former colleagues have also paid tribute, acknowledging his wise counsel and unwavering dedication to education and public service. His passing marks the end of an era for many who were inspired by his leadership and commitment to social justice. 
A Lasting Legacy
Prof Sibusiso Bengu’s contributions to South Africa’s educational and political landscape are profound and far-reaching. His visionary leadership during the nascent stages of South Africa’s democracy helped shape an education system striving for equity and excellence. His legacy continues to influence contemporary educational policies and serves as a guiding light for future generations committed to the principles of equality and human dignity.
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