By Johnathan Paoli
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has mourned the passing of one of the country’s most distinguished education officials and the first democratically appointed education minister, Sibusiso Bengu.
“His passion to promote equality and fairness has had a long-lasting influence on our society, and this should inspire us. To this day many South Africans are still benefiting from his immense contribution, and for this we are grateful,” Mashatile said on Friday.
He was delivering a eulogy during a state funeral at the University of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal.
Mashatile described Bengu as a revolutionary thinker, diplomat and teacher, whose profound contributions to dismantling apartheid-era policies and shaping an inclusive education system have an enduring legacy.
He highlighted Bengu’s pivotal role in reshaping South Africa’s education landscape during the country’s transition to democracy, describing him as a remarkable individual committed to justice, equality and access to education for all.
He praised Bengu’s role in unifying 17 fragmented education departments into a cohesive system and introducing policies that continue to guide the sector.
Mashatile said his reforms in higher education, including the introduction of Curriculum 2005, aimed to address the inequalities entrenched by apartheid.
He credited Bengu with influencing the nation’s progress toward a fairer and more inclusive society.
In recognition of his contributions, the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions Development Grant was renamed the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme, which aimed to address systemic inequalities in higher education, promote decolonisation, indigenous knowledge systems and readiness for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Mashatile also acknowledged ongoing efforts to build on Bengu’s legacy through initiatives like the Human Resource Development Council and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act in order to enhance access to education, bridge the skill gaps, and strengthen the role of technical and vocational education in the economy.
Mashatile emphasised that Bengu’s work went beyond education policy, and that by expanding access to quality education, he empowered previously disadvantaged communities to participate meaningfully in the economy and other sectors.
Despite advancements, Mashatile urged continued vigilance in addressing persistent challenges in education, and called for unity among diverse sectors of society, including government, universities and unions.
In closing, Mashatile extended condolences to Bengu’s family and praised the late professor’s enduring contributions to democracy and socio-economic development.
INSIDE EDUCATION
