Free State Education MEC Tate Makgoe has died in a car accident. The accident happened on the N1 outside Winburg in the early hours of this morning.
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COLLIDED WITH COWS
In a statement issued this morning, Tate spokesperson Sello Dithebe said emergency services crews attended the scene outside Winburg at about 01:30 am. "On arrival they found a light motor vehicle that collided with two cows and three occupants were trapped inside it. They used the jaws of life to free the occupants and unfortunately the MEC and one of his protectors were declared dead on the scene," Dithebe said. The MEC's driver suffered minor injuries.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Under the leadership of Makgoe, Free State achieved South Africa's best matriculant results for four consecutive years. The class of 2022 also led other provinces with a pass rate of 88.5%, an increase of 2.8% from 2021. Makgoe was the MEC of Education in the province since 2009. He is one of the longest-serving members of the Executive Committee and a member of the provincial legislature of the Free State. He was the ANC Provincial Treasury between 1998 and 2001.
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CONDOLENCES POURING IN
Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga said she was shocked and saddened by Makgoe's passing. "I have no words to express my deepest shock at the news of the untimely passing of comrade Tate. When I was appointed Minister of Basic Education, he was also appointed MEC of Education in and has been in the position ever since. The success of the province in education can be attributed mainly to his leadership, dedication, understanding of the sector and the innovation which has yielded great results. I am truly saddened by his passing," said Minister Motshekga. The Economic Freedom Fighters in Free State also issued a statement and said Makgoe was amongst the very few dedicated and humble government leaders. "Makgoe was very passionate about education and will be remembered for his discipline and diligent service to the people of the Free State. His contribution to education in the province will be remembered," provincial chairperson Mapheule Lipheko said.
