Principal’s death shocks community
Hundreds of mourners from various sectors paid their last respects to a highly respected and popular educationist and community activist.
Having returned from the winter vacation for term three, the governing body, staff and learners at Marburg Secondary learnt with shock and disbelief of the sudden and unexpected death of their leader and principal, Collin ‘CK’ Govender (54), on June 29.
Hundreds of mourners from various sectors of education, social welfare, sports, civics, business and religions gathered at Umzinto Town Hall last week Wednesday to pay their last respects to a highly respected and popular educationist and community activist.
Glowing tributes were paid from many high-profile speakers who represented the different sectors.
Deputy Principal of Marburg Secondary, Thavi Moodley, alluded to Govender’s vision, exemplary work ethic, and brave and unwavering leadership.
“In a short space of time, he made a remarkable contribution to get the school to become one of the high achievers in the Ugu District. This was through his inspirational, innovative ideas and academic intervention programmes.”
Jaya Pillay (chief education specialist), speaking on behalf of Ugu District Education, described Govender as an ideal servant-hearted leader who displayed exemplary stewardship in any organisation he served.
“Having impacted the school and community of Port Shepstone in the manner he did, there was no doubt that higher offices in the department would have beckoned, a destiny sadly left unfulfilled.”
Selvan Chetty, a South Coast human rights and political activist, lauded Govender’s selfless contribution to the political, social and civic struggles.
“He had a passion to alleviate the plight of the poor, underprivileged and downtrodden. Not only was he a soldier in the political circles, he was also a leader in the teacher unions and civics. ”
Sterling tributes were also delivered by Child Welfare Umzinto colleague Anand ‘LR’ Naidoo, who described Govender as a ‘livewire’ as he served in multiple portfolios spanning 30 years.
Heartfelt condolences and sympathies are extended to his immediate family. Govender is survived by his wife Vanessa (Pam), son Kineshan and brothers Craig and Calvin.
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