Dr Ramesh Jeram (1965–2024)

12 October 1965–21 September 2024

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Cape Town (UCT) is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Ramesh Jeram, the former director of the Schools Development Unit (SDU) at UCT. He passed away in Cape Town on 21 September 2024.

Affectionately known as “Ramesh” to his colleagues and students, he joined UCT on 1 April 2021, bringing with him an unwavering commitment to serving the university as well as underprivileged schools, alongside his colleagues from the SDU. Dr Jeram embodied a unique blend of lightness and sincerity that enriched the university’s community, proving that working hard towards a progressive social vision could still be achieved through empathy and kindness. His passion for education and service to UCT remained unwavering until his untimely passing.

Message from the dean of the Faculty of Humanities

“Dr Jeram embodied the very essence of what it means to be an educator and a leader. His commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments and his unwavering dedication to student success will resonate within our institution for years to come. Ramesh had a unique ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life: and his approach to education was always rooted in empathy and understanding. His legacy is one of nurturing the potential of others, and as we reflect on his contributions, let us be inspired to carry forward his vision of compassion and integrity in education. We have lost not just a colleague, but a true friend and advocate for the transformative power of education,” said Professor Shose Kessi.

Professional achievements

Dr Jeram matriculated from Athlone High School in the Cape Flats, during a tumultuous decade of educational resistance to apartheid, and began his post-school academic journey at UCT. He completed a Bachelors of Sciences and later qualified as a mathematics and sciences teacher. He taught mathematics and physical sciences for 14 years at Cathkin High School in Heideveld, during which time he completed his postgraduate studies through the University of South Africa (UNISA). In 2005, he transitioned to Stellenbosch University, first working at the Institute for Mathematics and Science Education (IMSTUS) and later at the Stellenbosch University Centre for Pedagogy (SUNCEP) from 2013 onwards. Over the course of 13 years, he played a pivotal role in the Continuing Professor Teacher Development (CPTD) at Stellenbosch University.

While serving as the component head for research at SUNCEP from 2019, he conceptualised and led research across all programmes, with a focus on teacher professional development. His studies explored various methods to bridge the gap between theory and practice in teacher education. In April 2021, he assumed the role of director of the School Development Unit (SDU) at UCT, where he strategically managed the unit to ensure quality teaching and learning for in-service teachers.

A visionary leader

Upon his appointment as the director of the SDU, Jeram employed a strategic management approach that ensured the continuous delivery of quality teaching and learning from in-service teachers. He sought to empower the SDU staff, encouraging them to embrace new skills and take on new responsibilities. Many students considered him a mentor, recalling his continuous support and encouragement that ultimately assisted in ensuring their academic success .

Sentiments from SDU colleagues:

His colleagues recall that even in moments of adversity, he remained authentic, acknowledged his mistakes, and brought lightness to difficult situations with humour and kindness. His office, strategically located facing the third floor elevator in the Neville Alexander Building on lower campus, became a welcoming hub where no one could pass without a warm greeting and a thoughtful conversation. His knowledge, experience, kindness, compassion, and inimitable sense of humour resonated throughout the School of Education and the broader university community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who have had the privilege of knowing him.

His understanding of our history of political struggle, particularly in the context of education, made him an exceptional leader for the SDU. His engagement with schools in impoverished areas reflected his own lived experience. He was able to demonstrate in action his concern and compassion, not just speak out about injustices. This deep social and political understanding fostered relationships built on trust, uniting the SDU staff in a way that allowed their collective efforts to flourish naturally.

His compassion extended to community service, as he actively participated in a host of community initiatives, which included a community feeding project. He is remembered by many communities for regularly donating food and using his family home as a kitchen to prepare meals for those in greater need. His generosity and kindness were some of the qualities that defined him, and which he lived in all aspects of his life.

Jeram cherished music, particularly jazz, and enjoyed attending jazz concerts and festivals whenever he could. He loved cooking, often preparing meals for friends and exchanging recipes with colleagues. For most of his life, he cared for his mother, often spending Sunday afternoons driving her around the scenic Cape Peninsula or along the West Coast.

As colleagues, we remember Dr Jeram as not only a brilliant educator but also a devoted friend. His infectious energy, gregariousness, and genuine interest in others made our workplace a more joyful and supportive environment. He demonstrated that challenges at work did not need to be met with frowns or rebuke; rather, they could be approached with respect and humility, making life richer and more meaningful, and adding to the professional and personal development of the staff he led and worked alongside.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jeram’s family, friends, and colleagues. He is survived by his mother Kathy; his brothers Thakor and Amrit Jeram; and his sister Tohierah Takay, who will forever cherish his memory.

The world is less bright without you, Ramesh. Rest in peace.