Statement by Cameron Dugmore, MEC for Education in the Western Cape

I want to join the thousands of voices across the country in expressing sadness at the sudden and tragic passing away of one of the most committed education activist of the Western Cape, and indeed the country, Don Pasquallie.

In paying tribute to the life of Don, whom I have met many years ago in the structures of the liberation movement, we can all but say thank you to his family for allowing Don to have played the role he has.

No doubt, a tough negotiator and robust union organiser, Don always used his energy never for personal gain or material benefit, but always to advance the cause of quality education for every child.

Due to his efforts and those of many members he led in the SA Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu), first as branch chairperson, as provincial secretary and at the time of his death, as (national) deputy secretary-general, our country has recorded many achievements in education.

No doubt, some serious challenges remain but leaders like Don laid a good foundation for the further advancement of quality education.

My sincere condolences to the families of all the deceased, to Don’s wife Gerna and three daughters, and his parents Anne and Nick Pasquallie. I also convey the condolences of our national Minister Naledi Pandor.

I also wish to convey my condolences to the family of Don’s brother Alfredo, who passed away in the same tragic accident. As deputy principal of Scottsville Secondary School, and a committed SADTU member, he made countless sacrifices to build quality education in our province.

Given the many challenges that confront all of us in the education sector, I believe that we should pick up the spear left by our late comrades and intensify the struggle for quality education.

For enquiries, contact Gert Witbooi:  082 550 3938, or gwitbooi@pgwc.gov.za.

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za

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