In remembrance: Thotoane Ramalefane

Dear colleagues and students

It is with deep sadness that we inform you of the death of Ms Thotoane Ramalefane (49), a PhD student and tutor in the Department of Sociology. Ms Ramalefane died in her sleep in Cape Town on Sunday, 5 April 2020.

Ms Ramalefane – who has been described as humble, soft spoken and diligent with her work – has been with the department for many years. She was completing her PhD thesis entitled ‘The role of non-governmental organisations in realising the land rights of rural women in post-apartheid South Africa: the case of the Itireleng Development Organisation in the Mopani District of Limpopo province’ at the time of passing. She had tutored first-years and had been an active member of the sociology community in her department.

Many people in the department and wider community have fond memories of her and expressed their grief over her passing. She was respected for her dedication and determination in her research and academic pursuits. Most importantly, she was loyal to working alongside communities and is deeply admired for devoting her energy to working in the pursuit of improving women’s land rights.

Ms Ramalefane is survived by her parents, two brothers and three sisters. Funeral details have not yet been finalised.

The university has reached out to offer support to the Ramalefane family. We convey our heartfelt condolences to Ms Ramalefane’s family, friends and all who knew her. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time.

Sincerely

The UCT Executive

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements