A memorial service was held on 31 August 2022 to remember Dr Thomas Masvosve, Head of the Natural Science Teaching Department at Sol Plaatje University (SPU).
SPU Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch shared his memories of Dr Masvosve, who joined SPU in 2014. “I knew whenever I would see him, he would have a question to ask. He was very passionate about maths, science and technology, and always said to me that we need to teach and train more intensely in sciences. He was very passionate about teaching and took his career as a teacher very seriously. We are blessed to have had an opportunity to be with this remarkable man”, said Prof Crouch.
Ms Heidi Hanekom, Dr Masvosve’s colleague from the Department of Natural Science and Teaching told the gathering: “Dr Masvosve grew with the university and took on many roles here. He was very busy and enthusiastic about maths, science and technology. He always encouraged us to further our studies and was very supportive, even when you made mistakes. He remained a wonderful teacher, and other colleagues can attest to him being a remarkable human being that lived amongst us. He taught us to appreciate our colleagues and the people in our lives, our friends, families and reminded us that we should cherish friendships.”
During the service, Ms Nicole Morris, Dean of Student Affairs, read a verse from Matthew 5:4 to comfort family, friends, and colleagues. “I chose this verse because to me it is an indication of the greatness that was Dr Masvosve. May we rally behind one another during these difficult times and remember the love and passion he had. May it stay with us and let us act on it as a contribution to his legacy. May the Masvosve family be comforted with the words of the students and staff who spoke here today,” she said.
“Thank you for sharing your father, son, and husband with us. May his soul rest in peace,” concluded Morris.
Dr Masvosve’s colleagues and students remember him as a passionate teacher, especially in the Higher Education sector. He was a dedicated academic and a zealous educator. His loss is keenly felt by the entire university community.
