In remembrance: Cebo Mhleli Mbatha

Dear colleagues and students

As communicated on Monday, 30 September 2019, University of Cape Town student Cebo Mhleli Mbatha (18) passed away on Saturday, 28 September 2019, following a violent incident at Third Beach, Clifton.

Mr Mbatha was a first-year Bachelor of Social Science student majoring in philosophy and politics and governance.

The death of this young man has dealt our institution a terrible blow. Any death, particularly of a young person, is very difficult to deal with. To come to terms with the violent manner in which Cebo lost his life in a senseless criminal incident is extremely challenging. We mourn the loss of his young life and the potential that was still to unfold, which has been stolen from us in such a tragic manner.

Better known as Cheese, he has been described as someone who lit up the room and had an impact on people – even those who knew him for only a short time. He was a high-spirited, effervescent person who seemed wise beyond his years. He will be remembered as someone who was caring, had a good sense of humour and a passion for education. He lived a life of purpose and could always find a solution to a problem.

Mr Mbatha is survived by his parents, Linda and Nomusa Mbatha, and his sisters, Sibahle and Thabiso.

The funeral will take place on Saturday, 5 October, in Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal.

The university has reached out to offer support to the Mbatha family and our sincere condolences go out to them and all who knew him.

Members of the campus community affected by this deeply tragic news can access support through the Student Wellness Service (students) or the Human Resources department (staff).

Sincerely

The UCT Executive

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