THE death of the principal of Dirkie Uys Primary School has left a huge void in the education sector.

These were some of the sentiments shared by the speakers at the funeral service of the late principal, Nduduzo Mhlongo (53), on May 30 at the school hall.

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Mhlongo died on May 26 when his vehicle crashed into a tree on Solomon Mahlangu Drive while driving to work.

Mhlongo was also a pastor at the Prayer Assemblies of God.

His wife, Bongiwe Mhlongo, told the Southlands Sun that a post-mortem report revealed he had suffered heart failure while driving to the school in the morning.

“The news came as a shock to the family because he had never experienced any heart-related problems. My husband was healthy, and no one suspected he had a cardiac condition,” said Mhlongo.

She said her husband was a pillar of strength for the entire family.

“He was supportive to his family. He was a man of peace and integrity,” she said.

Also read: Education is the key to success, says Dirkie Uys principal

Thokozani Mhlongo echoed these sentiments, saying Nduduzo’s calling to ministry was evident from a young age.

“Moreover, he was devoted to preaching the Word of God. His ministry began from his early age. He preached to vulnerable young people, including those that are struggling with drug addiction, helping many to transform their lives.

Several people who shared testimonies at the funeral said he went out of his way to support even those who had lost hope, including homeless people.

Speaking on behalf of teachers at the school, Zola Dudeni remembered Mhlongo as an intelligent man who often prioritised his staff.

“It is going to take time for us to find [a person suitable for his position], but we trust God who provides that somehow because of the traits [he] left behind we hope to find those who reflect your legacy,” she said.

Nduduzo’s close friend, Sandile Buthelezi, described Mhlongo as a champion of education who constantly encouraged others to pursue higher learning.

School governing body members

Chairperson of the Dirkie Uys Primary School, Celani Lupindo, said the deceased was a mentor who always took wise decisions.

“He taught us to make decisions based on facts rather than emotions. He knew every learner and many of their parents by names. He was often the last person to leave the school, ensuring that the school ran smoothly,” said Lupindo.

Among those who attended the funeral was the spokesperson for KZN Department of Education, Muzi Mahlambi, colleagues from the education sector, relatives, school principals, and the Dirkie Uys Primary School choir and members of the public.

Also read: Dirkie Uys continues to champion through challenges

Mhlongo began his primary education at Nkanyezi Primary School and completed it at Jaja Primary School in Mbumbulu, before he matriculated at Mgaga High School.

His qualifications include:

• Senior primary teacher’s diploma obtained from Ezakheni College of Education,
• Bachelor of Arts at Unisa,
• Bachelor of Education Honours in educational management graduating Cum Laude at Unisa
• Masters Degree Educational Management

Mhlongo’s higher education credentials

At the time of his death he was pursuing a Phd degree at Unisa, and his academic endeavours focused on transforming and decolonising South African education.

He began his teaching career in 1996 at Siphimfundo High School in Ladysmith. He grew within the ranks in the education department. In April 2019 he joined Dirkie Uys Primary.

He left behind his wife, Bongiwe, and their two children.

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