The sudden and unexpected death of Free State MEC for Education, Tate Makgoe, has left the province in shock and mourning. Makgoe, who was 63 years old, passed away on Sunday in a car accident.
Who Was Mr Tate Makgoe?
Tate Makgoe was an experienced politician and a staunch member of the African National Congress (ANC). He had been the MEC for Education in the Free State province for over a decade, having first served in the position in 2009. During his tenure, he implemented various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of education in the province.
Makgoe was known for his passion for education and his commitment to ensuring that all learners in the Free State had access to quality education. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Free State Education Trust, which provides bursaries for disadvantaged learners, as well as the Free State Schools Infrastructure Programme, which aims to improve the infrastructure of schools in the province.
Makgoe was also a firm believer in the importance of early childhood education and worked tirelessly to ensure that children in the province had access to quality early childhood development programmes.
The news of Makgoe’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief and condolences from politicians, colleagues, and members of the public. Many have praised him for his dedication to education and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the province.
His passing has left a void in the education sector in the Free State, with many paying tribute to his visionary leadership and tireless efforts to improve the lives of learners in the province. His legacy will be remembered for years to come, and his contributions to education in the Free State will not be forgotten.
Addressing the media following the tragic passing of Makgoe who hails from Tumahole, Parys, Dukwana described Makgoe as a vibrant and politically conscious member of the African National Congress (ANC).
RIP Tate Makgoe
Makgoe and his bodyguard Pule Nkopane were declared dead at the scene.
The driver Vuyo Mdi is currently in hospital.
According to Dukwana, the Free State emergency crew responded to an accident in the early hours of Sunday and upon arrival, they found a light motor vehicle which had collided with two cows.
“As the Free State provincial government, we would like to send our condolences to his family.
Meanwhile, the Basic Education department also expressed shock at the passing on of Makgoe.
Sad news about Free Education MEC Tate Makgoe. Rest in peace brother ???????? pic.twitter.com/FdwyRdcsis
— Elijah Mhlanga (@ElijahMhlanga) March 5, 2023
The department’s minister Angie Motshekga said she was saddened by the tragic passing of Makgoe.
“I have no words to express my deepest shock at the news of the untimely passing of comrade Tate.
“When I was appointed Basic Education minister, he was also appointed MEC for Education in the Free State and has been in the position since,” Motshekga said in a statement.
In conclusion, the death of Tate Makgoe is a great loss to the Free State province, and the education sector in particular. May his soul rest in peace.
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