Tributes to Professor Muxe Nkondo

Professor Nkondo's contributions to various fields, including science and technology, higher education, arts and culture, and rural development, have left a lasting impact.

Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Prof. Blade Nzimande has expressed deep shock and sadness at the passing of Professor Muxe Nkondo, who died at the age of 83 on Sunday.

Legacy and Impact: Professor Nkondo was a pivotal figure in the struggle against apartheid and the development of democratic South Africa. He was remembered as a radical scholar, activist, and a prominent Vice-Chancellor during the transformative early years of South Africa's higher education system.

Intellectual Contributions: Nkondo emphasized the importance of African liberation as a holistic process that includes political, cultural, social, economic, and intellectual emancipation. His intellectual work was deeply influenced by radical thinkers such as Walter Rodney, Franz Fanon, Amilcar Cabral, CLR James, and Steve Biko.

Higher Education and Rural Development: Nkondo served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the North and Vice-Chancellor at Venda University, where he championed rural development and a science and technology agenda addressing local issues like water security, food production, and small business development.

Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS): He played a crucial role in drafting the IKS National Policy for the Department of Science and Technology, reflecting his commitment to integrating indigenous knowledge with modern science and technology.

Pan-African Influence: Nkondo's work extended beyond South Africa, contributing to a broader African agenda through initiatives like the African Union (AU) and New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). He was notably involved in the 2004 AU conference in Dakar on the role of intellectuals in Africa's development.

Personal Condolences: Minister Nzimande extended heartfelt condolences to Professor Nkondo's family, including his wife, Professor Olga Nyondo, and their children.

Professor Nkondo's contributions to various fields, including science and technology, higher education, arts and culture, and rural development, have left a lasting impact. His work will continue to influence the Department of Science and Innovation's policies and initiatives.