Sibusiso Bengu lauded as ‘profound intellectual’
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says although they mourn the passing of Professor Sibusiso Bengu, there is a sense of celebration for his dignified life.
Bengu passed away on 30 December at the age of 90.
He served as the first Black Vice-Chancellor at the University of Forte Hare and later as the first Minister of Education in a democratic South Africa.
Mchunu spoke at Bengu’s memorial service in eShowe on KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday.
“Standing here, I am actually torn. Something in me says there is a funeral, and in your mind and heart, you mourn because it is painful from the time of the passing, and this pain attacked many of us until today,” Mchunu said.
“But on the other hand, there is an element of celebration, the need to celebrate the life of Professor Sibusiso Mandlenkosi Emmanual Bengu. So, you do not know how to keep the balance because both aspects are true.”
Mchunu described Bengu as “a profound intellect born to live in education”.
“He was not a man of many words but once he started talking to you, you were bound to attend to what he was saying until he finished. Everything he said made sense.” Mchunu said.
“His life’s work stands a testament to his deep commitment to social transformation, education and upliftment of the people of South Africa.”
Mchunu praised Bengu for the manner in which he ran both the University of Fort Hare and the Education Department.
“Everything that he did had education in it, from school until he was Minister of Education.”
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