By Loveness Hulwane
The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently suffered and mourned the loss of seven of its cherished students.
The first tragedy struck when Sinethemba Tshabale, Kananelo Mokhele, Katlego Ramodibe, Olwethu Khojane, Simphiwe Nzimande and Tshepo Maboea tragically lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident in the early hours of Sunday, 18 August 2024.
Tragically, just a few days later, the NWU community was once again overcome with grief upon learning of the death of Mamohlotsi Rebecca Nchabeleng, who was brutally killed by her partner.
Commemorating the lives of Sinethemba, Kananelo, Katlego, Olwethu, Simphiwe and Tshepo
On the sombre afternoon of 22 August 2024, a memorial service filled with grief, yet united in remembrance, took place at the Tsebonokeng Hall. Although the atmosphere was thick with palpable sadness, the memories that each speaker shared, brought comfort.
Prof Sibusiso Chalufu, acting deputy vice-chancellor for Vanderbijlpark Campus operations and executive director for student life, welcomed everyone to the service and expressed his condolences to the families, friends, community and all present, both in person and virtually.
He shared poignant reflections on the essence of community, reminding all of the role that each student play in enriching campus life. His voice resonated with empathy, emphasising resilience and the importance of supporting one another during this difficult time.
The service continued with heartfelt messages and words of condolences from various individuals.
A slideshow of the vibrant memories of laughter, study sessions and unforgettable gatherings reminded everyone of the joy Sinethemba, Kananelo, Katlego, Olwethu, Simphiwe and Tshepo once shared and created with friends on campus and at Moahi Village.
Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, delivered a moving eulogy, saying, "We find comfort in knowing that these beloved souls are now in a place free from suffering and the adversities of the world. Their memories will forever light our path, reminding us to live with the passion and purpose they embodied."
Prof Tyobeka also expressed his deepest gratitude to the families for entrusting the NWU with their children, allowing them to learn, lead and serve at the university. "The changes they fought for will continue to influence and benefit future generations of students. We are thankful for the time they shared with us and will carry their legacy forward in everything we do. May they rest in peace," he concluded.
Interspersed within the solemnity of the service were performances by the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus Choir, Voices of the River, and by the Twelve Apostle Church in Trinity Choir. That night, a candlelight vigil was held at Moahi Village, inviting students who had known and loved the departed.
Honouring the memory of Mamohlotsi Rebecca Nchabeleng
A few days later, the NWU community once again reeled from the shocking news of the death of Mamohlotsi Rebecca Nchabeleng at the hands of her partner.
Once again, the university community gathered to honour her memory in a moving tribute led by Reverend Sibusiso Dladla on 29 August.
Prof Chalufu welcomed everyone to the service and expressed his condolences to the families. “On Thursday this past week, we were gathered in the same hall to commemorate the lives of our six students who perished in a horrific accident, and today we are here again, gathered to remember and honour the life of Rebecca – a bright, jovial, young and beautiful woman with such a great future ahead of her.”
Prof Chalufu highted that Rebecca’s memorial service was to honour her life, but also to underline the urgency to address gender-based violence and femicide in the country. He urged young men to seek help, emphasising that there is no shame in admitting and acknowledging their problems, and appealed to them to speak openly about their troubles.
Prof Chalufu also delivered a message to young women and girls: "No man who truly loves you would cause you pain and misery, whether physical, emotional or mental. Stay away from a man who blames everyone else instead of facing his own problems."
He thanked Rebecca’s family for coming all the way from Limpopo, and encouraged them to cherish all the beautiful moments they had with her
Rebecca’s friends also shared their heartfelt condolences and created a slideshow capturing her vibrant moments, celebrating her life and spirit. offered comfort to everyone in attendance.
Kamohelo Zwane, the Student Campus Council chairperson, bid a heartfelt farewell to Rebecca and condemned violence against women. "We lost a woman during Women's Month. We need to take action. As long as gender-based violence continues, we must not stop fighting it."
Following a powerful brief sermon, Reverend Dladla concluded the service, with a closing prayer, "May God bless the families, friends, and the NWU community."
These sorrowful gatherings served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the bonds created within the university community. Though the pain of loss lingers, the legacy of these seven students will always inspire and guide their friends and peers.
The NWU mourned the loss of Sinethemba Tshabale, Kananelo Mokhele, Katlego Ramodibe, Olwethu Khojane, Simphiwe Nzimande and Tshepo Maboea on 22 August.
Just a few days later, the NWU community came together again on 29 August to mourn the death of Mamohlotsi Rebecca Nchabeleng.
