Death of UCT's professor Mayosi shows need for black professionals to unite - BMF

The suicide of Prof. Bongani Mayosi, dean of health sciences at the University of Cape Town, is a reminder of the importance of the need for black professionals to unite and support each other in confronting their everyday struggles, Andile Nomlala, provincial chair of the Black Management Forum (BMF) in the Western Cape, said on Wednesday.

Mayosi (51), who suffered from depression, died from suicide last week. His death has ignited a debate relating to allegations that student protesters had put a lot of stress on him and that he had been called names like "coconut" or "sell-out".

"Prof. Mayosi was an epitome of black excellence and it remains our responsibility as black professionals to continue his legacy and work ethic," Nomlala said in a letter of condolence to Mayosi's family.

• READ: UCT must take responsibility for Prof Mayosi's death – former Fees Must Fall leader

Mayosi was a recipient of the BMF's Thought Leader of the Year award in 2017. The BMF sees his death not only as a blow to academia and the medical fraternity, but also to the entire South African nation at large.

"Along with the entire nation, the Black Management Forum (WC) mourns the passing of Professor Mayosi and sends its deepest condolences to the Mayosi family, friends and loved ones," said Nomlala.

"As the Black Management Forum (WC) we also pledge to offer any support we can to the Mayosi family during these trying times and shall endeavour to do our utmost to ensure that his immense contribution, values and sacrifice to the academia and country forever remains in the hearts of all South Africans."

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