Memorial service for Professor Jakes Gerwel held today

Mluleki Mrwebi
01 December 2012

 

The memorial service for Professor Jakes Gerwel was held at the University of the Western Cape today.

 Professor Gerwel passed at the age of 66 in hospital on Wednesday morning.

 Among the dignitaries present at the service were the Former President FW De Klerk, Graca Machell, Ahmed Kathrada and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

 Gerwel has served as the Rector and vice-chancellor at the University of the Western Cape, and the Director General of the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

 

Trevor Manuel the Minister in Presidency described Jakes as the man who was a pillar of strength to Nelson Mandela.

 

Njabulo Ndebele an old time friend of Jakes, described Jakes as a leader, an academic, activist and a friend.

 

The University of the Western Cape said the country is poor for Jakes` passing.

 

UWC`s Brian O`Connell said the university propose a Jakes Gerwel commemoration Bursary in his honour.

 Andre Odendaal from Cricket South Africa described him as an example to many for his tireless efforts in trying to ensure that youth participate in cricket.