It was a sad moment for the families, friends and colleagues of the late Thembinkosi Nkosi, Kholwani Sibisi and Nickson Toga as they spoke fondly of their departed loved ones.
The three educators tragically passed away in a car accident on their way back from a workshop at the OR Tambo Mathematics, Science and Technology Academy last week.
Their colleagues from Tikhontele and Masitakhe Secondary Schools, together with the Mpumalanga Education MEC Bonakele Majuba and officials from the provincial education department celebrated the lives of the of three teachers at a memorial service held on 5 March in Matsulu, Mpumalanga.
The Toga family representative, Kennedy Mbono, said that this a traumatic experience for the family as the deceased leaves his wife and two children behind. Toga, who will be laid to rest in Zimbabwe, was described as a young hardworking man.
“Let us support the wife and children. I am grateful to the department for the support that they have rendered,” Mbono said.
Anele Mbele, a colleague of the teachers, spoke of his relationship with Kholwani Sibisi, saying their bond went beyond work. He said that they were brothers who always looked out for each other.
“It was difficult to inform the learners about the loss of the teachers. It is true that when you are gone your work will speak for you. We have lost a soldier. I would like to say to the families to trust in God’s plans, he knows what he is doing,” said Mbele.
MEC Majuba said that he is saddened by the loss of three mathematics and science teachers, especially when they went to empower themselves with knowledge that is needed to share with their learners. He described them as dedicated educators.
“This loss is a significant blow to the province, considering that we are mobilizing all resources to improve the intake and pass rate of Mathematics, Physical Science and Technology, which the late teachers were so passionate about,” Majuba said.
Majuba also said that the 2023 Mathematics and Sciences matric pass rate is a contribution of the late teachers.