Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is mourning the loss of Cebo Nyondo, who has passed away. In a deeply moving tribute written by Dr Manyane Makua, the University community is remembering Nyondo not only as an exceptional institutional leader, but as an irreplaceable pillar of strength, loyalty, and excellence.
Nyondo joined the LTDC in 2013 as one of its very first eLearning Specialists, shortly after the centre commenced operations. Over more than a decade, Nyondo rose steadily through the ranks to become Deputy Director, discharging his duties with profound pride, humility, and dedication. His commitment to MUT was unwavering. Dr Makua recalled an instance when Nyondo was approached with a job offer from another university yet chose to remain loyal to MUT. Dr Makua told Nyondo: “You are going nowhere.”
Beyond his administrative excellence, Nyondo was celebrated for his mentorship of staff, his calm demeanour, and his resilient work ethic. He was famously known as a driving force behind national conferences, the institutional memory behind key initiatives, and the visionary behind the Teaching with Technology (TwT) Summit.
Described as a constant presence of support, Nyondo’s daily routine involved checking in on colleagues, walking leadership to meetings and parking lots, and stepping up as the first port of call during high-pressure situations and complex institutional reporting. Colleagues remembered him for his warmth, his signature “Fish Jokes,” and his ability to keep strategic planning sessions grounded with a blend of intense focus and light-hearted camaraderie.
“Death has robbed your family; it has robbed MUT; it has robbed our team; and it has robbed me personally,” Dr Makua reflected in the tribute. “Yours was a life that signified an unassailable, lasting legacy.”
Nyondo leaves behind a profound footprint at Mangosuthu University of Technology, having shaped the Institution’s digital learning landscape and earned the enduring respect of all who worked alongside him. Dr Makua’s tribute has been distributed to all staff.
Lala ngoxolo, Mfanakithi.