THE death of National Teachers Union (NATU) president, Allen Thompson, will leave a void in the education sector.

The education activist diligently discharged his duties, with special emphasis on integrity and honesty and experts say he will be sorely missed. Thompson passed away last week after contracting Covid-19.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Zululanders pray for frontline health workers and Covid-19 patients

IFP President, Velenkosini Hlabisa, described Thompson as the voice of reason, a passionate educationist able to distinguish between education priorities and politics.

‘It is painful to lose an activist who was so deeply rooted in education as a teacher, principal, parent and unionist. His love, passion and fight for equality in education, while pursuing much-needed transformation, was out of this world.

‘As a former teacher and NATU member, I can attest he was indeed the best of us and in him we had a true leader and champion.’

Hlabisa’s sentiments were echoed by former principal of Mzingwenya Primary School, Dr Clotilda Zondo.

Zondo, who joined NATU in 1956, described Thompson as the champion of teachers in and outside NATU.

‘When approaching issues, he would invest his energy and time on practical interventions and solutions. Teachers across the union spectrum could count on him as their representative. His voice represented hope.

‘His tireless efforts in fighting for Grade R teachers to have their dignity restored in terms of better salaries, will never be forgotten,’ she said.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer