It is with deep sadness that we inform the University community of the demise of our former Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Gessler Muxe Nkondo, aged 83. A social policy, national strategy development, and discourse analysis scholar, practitioner and an academic, passed away on Sunday, 18 August 2024. The former Vice-Chancelor and Principal, Prof Muxe Nkondo, served the University of Venda between 1994 and 2005. He is the third Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Venda.
Prof Nkondo served the University with dedication and passion, leaving a lasting impact on our institution and the lives of many within our community. During his tenure, Prof Nkondo championed academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity, shaping our university into what it is today. Through his unwavering commitment, during the higher education transformation which led to mergers of institutions of higher education in South Africa, UNIVEN was retained as an independent, comprehensive university.
On behalf of the University Community, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni extends his deepest condolences to the Nkondo family, friends, and colleagues of Prof Nkondo during this difficult time. Prof Nthambeleni further said” Prof Nkondo’s vision and leadership have inspired generations of students and staff, and his legacy will continue to guide us in our pursuit of excellence and service to the community.”
May we all take a moment to remember and honour the remarkable contributions of our former Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been touched by his remarkable life and work.
Further details regarding memorial and funeral services as well as any relevant information will be shared with the University community in due course.
For further inquiries or support during this time, please contact family spokes persons:
Joe Mathebula: 082 955 2786
Kulani Lebese: 084 618 6107
Ends
The University of Venda produces graduates that are locally relevant and globally competitive. We create future leaders.
Issued by: Dr Takalani Dzaga, APR
Director, Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 015 962 8112/8525 or 082 745 3090/ 064 828 9251
