AN ODE TO PROF Bonqani Mavosi by the I-JCT Black Alumni Association (UCTABA)
It's not often that through one person
there's so much impact to many and positive influence. Right in the middle of
his 51st year of birth and in the century's longest lunar eclipse that would
last some four hours, Bongani's natural light was dimmed.
However, that wasn't before he had
exemplified, showcased and debunked myths about heights a Black and African
child could scale. Not only was he a prolific scholar, superior rated academic
researcher, pioneering and trailblazing professional, Prof Mayosi demonstrated
unparalleled excellence with sustainable talent development as he opened doors
for the cream of scientists enabling them to be top performing interns,
clinicians, academics and exemplar PhDs in fields previously considered out of
reach to them.
His influence knew no boundaries. His
excellence was initially fett @ UKZN where he was top student and UCT where he
became one amongst the first in series of roles. Harvard Business & Medical
Schools, and Oxford University experienced his piercing, lucid thinking and
academic excellence. This culminated in him being the second Black Dean of the
UCT Health Sciences faculty and Deputy Chairperson of the Honorary Degrees
Committee of the University Council.
South Africa has lost a great son and
a true hero. As UCTABA, we are very saddened by this untimely death of this
beacon. We are also concerned with the complexity of circumstances surrounding
his death. Equally, we are concerned with the rising level of strange deaths in
and amongst academics. Let his death not be in vein, but mark a pressing need
to look at the circumstances faced by these academics during execution of their
duties to enlighten our society. One death is a death to many. We call upon all
those who are close to the circumstances to join hands and eradicate
interferences that works against the progress that our academics spend their
lives striving for. If we are to prevent similar occurrence's, circumstances
around the passing on of this hero warrant an investigation. An institution
like I-JCT might want to look into the support that it provides to those
occupying such highly pressurized positions at the institution.
Our sincere condolences to the family,
in particular to his wife and children. May Prof Mayosi's soul rest in peace,
while his spirit lives for ever as an inspiration to all of us.
Justice
Luthuli — UCTABA President
Contact Details Cell: 083 282 1335
E-mail: admin@uctaba.org
Justice Luthuli — UCTABA President Aug.01, 2018