Dear Staff and Students,

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we inform the University of the Western Cape (UWC) community of the passing of our esteemed Council member, Mr. Thando Mjebeza.

Mr. Mjebeza was a valued member of the UWC Council. A respected leader in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, Mr. Mjebeza generously leveraged his vast expertise and position as CEO of Zimele Technologies to support UWC through various donations. His strategic input as a member of the ICT Governance Committee was instrumental in shaping the University’s digital and technological landscape.

Beyond his governance role, Mr. Mjebeza’s commitment to UWC was demonstrated through the immense generosity of his company, which consistently supported the University’s initiatives and infrastructure. He did not merely serve on our Council; he actively invested in the future of our students and the elevation of our institution.

According to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Balfour, "We have lost not only a visionary leader and council member, but a true champion of our University's digital transformation. His legacy of service and profound generosity will continue to inspire our collective efforts toward academic excellence and social justice."

On behalf of the entire UWC community—the Council, Management, staff, and students—we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Mjebeza family, his friends, and his colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

Ms. Xoliswa Mpongoshe: Chairperson of Council

Prof Robert Balfour: Rector and Vice-Chancellor