The service for Mulalo Nndwa, 26, took place on Tuesday (21/4), at 09:00 at the university. Nndwa was a student from Masakona Village in the Vhembe district of Limpopo.

She collapsed and passed away on university premises on Friday (17/4) shortly before her master’s graduation ceremony was set to begin.

The university community and her family gathered in numbers to support one another and recognise the life she lived.

Acting vice-chancellor and principal Prof. Anthea Rhoda addressed the congregation to send condolences to the Nndwa family and the university.

 “For those who are mourning, you are allowed to,” said Rhoda. She encouraged the family to reflect on the life Nndwa lived to find comfort.

Furthermore, master’s supervisor Siphokazi Ramile described her as a proud student who was well raised.

“She was a proud learner,” said Ramile.

Family representative Murendi Musanda Ndanduleni provided a statement on behalf of the relatives. He described Mulalo as a humble soul, stating that the family loved and honoured her.

Ndanduleni said the family would continue to support her memory. He also noted the family felt pride because Nndwa passed away as an educated person. Her family, fellow students, and university staff attended the service in large numbers to support one another and recognise her life.

The service allowed the university to meet formally with the family following the events of 17 April. Nndwa had completed all academic requirements for her master’s degree before her passing. The proceedings concluded on the university campus with reflections from the community.

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