Vice-Chancellor’s message to the university community as the academic year starts

“You were my pride – first black prof in Groote Schuur Institution, always admired you through your achievements, umzamo omhle uwuzamile!!!” Nthabeleng Ndlebe

“He stood for excellence, quality and virtuous living. His legacy will live on… Requiescat in pace Prof Mayosi! Hamba kahle baba!” Francis Masiye

“Thank you Prof Mayosi for teaching us to excel and nurturing so many to achieve their dreams in medicine and academia.” Stella Musungu

“Thank you for your generosity of spirit, for the opportunities and for the love and interest you showed to us as staff and students.” Joy Hunter

“His passion for medicine and research shone through, as did his belief in transformation of our institutions and the healthcare system . . . We will never forget his legacy.” Sharon Kling

“Prof Bongani had an immeasurable spirit of humanity, kind heartedness and brilliance.” Peter Suwirakwenda Nyasulu

“Bongani will always occupy a special place in my heart and be an inspiration to re-commit myself to tackling issues that benefit those in need in Africa and on a global scale.” Marc Mendelson

“He has touched and inspired so many, not just with his phenomenal academic achievements but just by being the authentic and wonderful person that he was.” Alison Tomlinson

“I continue to think of, and remember Bongani for his generosity of spirit, his gentleness, his unfailing kindness.” Marilet Sienaert

“Bongani, we will continue the journey of a 1000 miles and 1000 PhDs in fulfilment of your dream of better health for everyone in South Africa.” Keertan Dheda

“The loss of Bongani is a huge loss to UCT, but also to our world. He was an amazing, lovely man.” Jane Hendry

“Go well my friend and may your dear soul rest in peace. It was an honour and a privilege to know you.” Cyril O’Connor

“I fondly remember his beautiful smile, articulate voice and nimble stride, greeting everyone whom his eyes met.” Nisha Jacob

“Bongani is not defined by his incredible list of professional achievements, but by the person he was.” Serini Murugasen

“Just being in his presence was as inspiring as hearing him speak as a first-year medical student.” Pariva Chutterpaul

“You have indeed penned your name in gold the world over and you will forever be remembered.” Nicholas Thomford

“It is his SMILE that will make me smile when I have dark days and I will continue walking forward in faith, trust and encouragement.” Jacinta Munro

“UCT has lost a giant who will be remembered with love.” Lynn Semple

“What a very kind and sweet man he was. Thanking him for his great contribution.” Tanya Abrahams

“I shall long remember him with a combination of affection as an exceptional colleague, and with great sadness at the void he leaves.” Solomon Benatar

“The profound impact on my life and career is staggering. In many ways - without doubt, Bongani shaped and made me.” Mark Engel

“Live your lives to the fullest with full knowledge that Bongani is rooting for you from above!” Lehana Thabane

“He will be missed and his footprints shall forever be engraved in the sand of time for us to follow but never to try to fill.” Lolwakhe Maqubela

“A brilliant man, a visionary, a genius. We are all poorer for losing this legendary soul.” Suzette Lamprecht

“We will always remember Prof as a gentle soul, that sought to serve and inspired courage and strength as a byproduct of that willingness to serve.” Sibusiso Radebe

“Thank you Lord for people like Bongani who show us what great potential we all have to bless others with our gifts and talents.” James Irlam

“You were a role model to many, your humility and smartness always convincing us that nothing is impossible.” Harris Onywera

“He treated students, colleagues and patients with unwavering diligence and commitment to the oath he took as a medical doctor – respect for differences.” Una Kyriacos

“His stature was small, but he filled a room. He is leaving the world a wealthier place for him having been in it.” Michelle Carrihill