South Africa: As the Free State Province lay to rest MEC Tate Makgoe Sunday morning, the Mpumalanga Dept of Education, the education sector and the people of the Place of the Rising Sun convey sincere condolences to the Free State Education Department, the Makgoe family, and the people of Free State on the passing on of MEC Tate Makgoe.
As Mpumalanga, we were shattered and shocked when we received the sad news of his passing on the morning of Sunday, 5 March 2023. We are saddened and devastated by the sad and unfortunate news of his untimely passing on following a car accident.
MEC Makgoe was the epitome of the education sector. He represented outstanding performance and excellence in the quest to advance the delivery of quality education to all, especially children of the working class and the poor. He led from the front in advancing education delivery to improve learning and teaching for the Free State Province.
His passion and commitment to creating conditions that are favourable to improve the character of learners and free their potential were second to none, said Education MEC.
The education community has been hit hard by this sad development, and as such, we take this opportunity to convey our sincere condolences to the Makgoe family, his protector’s family and to the entire education sector in the country and beyond.
MEC concluded by saying, “Our thoughts are with you, the people of the Free State, and the bereaved families. At this time, we wish you strength and comfort in navigating through these dark times of mourning.”
Moreover, Warrant Officer Vuyo Mdi was laid to rest today in Mangaung, Saturday, 11 March 2023. Officer Mdi, together with the MEC for Education Tate Makgoe, perished on the N1 highway on Sunday, 5 March, when they were involved in a horrific car accident near Windburg.
Speaker after speaker paid a glowing tribute to Mdi, described as a dedicated and loyal police officer. Premier of the Free State province, Mxolisi Dukwana, said people like Mdi, a decorated officer, put their lives on the line to the very end.
“He was a loyal servant until the end. We would like to thank him for his selfless service. We also wish to extend our gratitude to his family for allowing Warrant Officer Mdi to serve his people. May his soul rest in peace,” said Premier Dukwana Mxolisi.
Also present at the funeral service were members of the executive council and the Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture. Maggie Sotyu.