UPDATE: Minister pays tribute after student dies of food poisoning

The minister of higher education, science and technology has spoken out following the death of a north university student.

Hunadi Magongoa allegedly consumed food at the university’s student cafeteria on 30 August. She died thereafter.

Higher education, science and technology minister Dr Blade Nzimande expressed his condolences to the family on Saturday.

“To the Magongoa family, Hunadi’s friends and classmates and the entire community of the Sefako Makgato Health Sciences University, and members of the community, my deepest sympathies goes out to you all during this time of grief.”

Nzimande said Magongoa’s death did not only leave a void and unanswered questions to the family alone, but to the government and South Africans at large.

READ MORE: NEWSFLASH: ‘Food poisoning’ claims student at north varsity

“It is for this reason that I appealed to the university management to expedite its investigation into the cause of Hunadi’s untimely death.”

Nzimande said he was pleased that upon knowledge of Magongoa’s death, the university swiftly instituted a multi-disciplinary investigation, comprising of both internal and external experts to get to the bottom of the student’s early departure.

The minister also expressed his gratitude towards the university management for closing down the university student cafeteria pending the conclusion of the investigation.

“People who knew Hunadi have spoken of her joyful character. They said she was known as a friendly and approachable person who loved to smile, who was passionate about her studies. She is said to have been always an enthusiastic and active participant in her class discussions. They have spoken of her inquisitiveness, eagerness to learn and active participation in tutorials.

“Not only was Hunadi an ideal student par excellence, but she also loved her sport, as she was a prominent football player of the university football team. She was indeed a rounded student, who knew the importance of balancing her cognitive as well as physical well-being. I want to believe that this is the reason why she was studying towards a medical qualification.”

READ MORE: North university student fondly remembered

Nzimande said the department would remain steadfast in implementing the national plan for post-school education and training which would provide a consolidated road map for a more integrated, transformed, articulated and effective post-school system in South Africa.

“Government will continue to provide the necessary support to the institutions of higher learning to provide students and staff with a healthy, safe and habitual post-school education environment.

“I want to assure you today that the government will stop at nothing to work towards a conducive learning environment that promotes safety, access and success for all students.

“As we mourn our beloved daughter, may God give you the comfort and peace that you seek at this moment of grief and may the soul of Hunadi rest in peace,” Nzimande said.

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