Eastern Cape Premier, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane is saddened to announce the untimely passing of Dr Soyisile Nuku who was Eastern Cape Department of Education Acting Head of Department.

Dr. Nuku passed on today at the age of 64 in an East London hospital following a short illness.

He was an astute administrator who started off as an educator and moved up the ranks to be a principal.

He left the classroom to join the administration corridors, serving in various management positions including being Cluster Chief Director before he retired.

Premier Mabuyane has on behalf of the Eastern Provincial Government and the people of the province conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues Dr Nuku. Dr Nuku was a seasoned public servant, whose commitment and passion for education has been evident throughout his life.

In April 2023, Dr Nuku came out of retirement, having accepted Premier Mabuyane’s call for him to serve as an Acting HOD in the Department of Education, a position he held until his untimely departure.

In the last year, he has been instrumental in leading the DoE administration which recently celebrated the unprecedented 81.4% matric pass rate.

Premier Mabuyane has lauded Dr. Nuku’s contribution in the education sector in the province, describing him as a patriot who stayed true to his calling and left an indelible mark in the provincial administration.

“We want to convey our deepest condolences to the family. Dr. Nuku was also family to us. Dr. Nuku was a patriot. When he left the service and we called him back, he did not hesitate. He came in with a plan and made sure that the department moves forward because he was fit for purpose.

We know that the age was not on his side but I was looking forward to having him longer for the sake of stability in the department.

His passing is devastating but may his soul rest in peace,” said Mabuyane.

Issued by: Provincial Communication Service – Eastern Cape For enquiries: Contact Government Spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie Cell: 082 728 7476 | E-mail: khuselwa.rantjie@ecotp.gov.za  OR Premier’s Spokesperson – Yanga Funani Cell: 078 348 0099 | Email: yanga.funani@ecotp.gov.za