10 June 2025
MEDIA STATEMENT
SADTU MOURNS THE LOSS OF FORMER STUDENT CHAPTER LEADER, COMRADE SMANGA SAPHIWE “NTSHEBE” MPANZA
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) extends its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, comrades and all who had the privilege of working with Comrade Smanga Saphiwe “Ntshebe” Mpanza, the former branch coordinator and a founding member of the SADTU Student Chapter at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Indumiso Campus.
Comrade Smanga’s passing leaves a deep void, but his legacy will continue to inspire and fuel the unwavering commitment of the SADTU family. As a founding member of the SADTU Student Chapter at the Indumiso Campus, Comrade Smanga played an instrumental role in organizing education faculty students under the SADTU banner, thereby creating a vital second layer of membership that strengthened the Union’s roots in institutions of higher learning.
In his memory, SADTU recommits itself to the principles Comrade Smanga championed. His work will not be in vain. We will continue to build on the foundation he helped lay, with an even greater sense of responsibility.
As we strive to realise the five Pillars of our 2030 Vision, we pledge to:
Serve and uplift union members at all levels.
Create a truly learning nation that equips every citizen with the tools for success.
Promote a development-oriented nation state focused on progress, equality, and social justice.
Strengthen international partnerships and solidarity to further our collective cause.
Build an organisational capacity that delivers real results for those who need us most.
SADTU stands firm in its resolve that Comrade Smanga’s contribution to the Union and the Student Chapter will never be forgotten. We honour him not with words alone, but with actions. His vision will continue to guide our work, and his spirit will be a constant source of motivation as we push forward in the struggle for a better, more just world.
May the soul of Comrade Smanga rest in peace. His work is done, but our struggle – his struggle – continues.
ISSUED BY: SADTU Secretariat