SADTU KWAZULU-NATAL STATEMENT ON THE DEMISE OF CDE
NKOSINATHI CHARLES ‘MATA’ NGCOBO: 3 APRIL 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Comrade
Nkosinathi Charles Ngcobo, one of those members who played a pivotal role
in the founding and growth of SADTU in KwaZulu-Natal. Comrade Charles was
among those who helped establish branches in the Midlands and beyond. The
story of the growth of SADTU would be incomplete without acknowledging his
contributions.
Throughout his tenure as a Union leader, Comrade Charles was a staunch
defender of teachers’ rights and a tireless advocate for a better education
system. He served SADTU in various capacities as Regional Education
Convenor, Regional Chair and Regional Secretary in the then Midlands
Region (now called Harry Gwala Region). He was also one of SADTU’s first Fulltime
Shop Stewards, participating in the LUV programme done in
collaboration with the Danish Government in Cape Town, along with other
capacity building initiatives aimed at training leaders to effectively represent
members.
Affectionately known as ‘Mata’, Comrade Charles passed away on the 1st of
April 2025. The union is still shocked by the news of his untimely demise. At the
time of his passing, Comrade Charles was serving as Director of Employee
Relations, a position he held since 2012. Before that, he served in many
positions both at school and office level as a principal, DCES Labour Relations
at uMgungundlovu District and acted as CES- Teacher Development,
Employee Relations, and Teacher Development at Head Office.
Comrade Charles also played a significant role in the Education Labour
Relations Council, first as a representative of SADTU and later as the
employer’s leading representative at both local and national.
The Union and membership are totally flabbergasted and find it difficult to
accept the news of his passing comrade. In honour of our comrade, SADTU in
the province of KwaZulu Natal and Harry Gwala Region in particular, lower our
banners in mourning.
During this time of mourning, while it is understood that comrade Charles
belongs to this family of SADTU, we are equally mindful of the need for all
members of SADTU, leaders and members who may have led with comrade
Charles during those years that the Ngcobo family be respected and be
afforded opportunity to internalise the situation. The Union (SADTU) which
comrade Charles was a member of until his last breath will organise a memorial
service in his honour, with details to be communicated once finalised. Working
closely with his family, we will ensure a befitting send-off.
The Provincial Executive Committee of SADTU will be visiting the family on the
4th of April 2025 at 13h00. As per the established tradition of our union, all
members and friends who wish to join the leadership in paying their respects
are welcome. Let us unite and close ranks in defence of the legacy of
comrade Charles as a member, leader, and activist of our Congress
Movement.
SADTU sends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and all who had
the privilege of working alongside Comrade Charles.
MAY THE REVOLUTIONARY SOUL OF COMRADE CHARLES REST IN PEACE!!!!!
ISSUED BY KZN SADTU SECRETARIAT