One of the country's finest administrators and academics, Dr Reginald Lufuno Kone, passed away on 7 April. The 66-year-old, who lived in Thohoyandou, died after being hospitalised with an undisclosed illness. He had been ill for some time.
Family spokesperson Mr Mulalo Masisi confirmed his death. He said Dr Kone had worked in various sectors, including government and at Exxaro Mine in Tshikondeni. He was also a senior lecturer at the University of Venda and most recently served as chairperson of the council at Lephalale TVET College.
He was hailed as an academic giant. Among his many qualifications were two doctorates – one in education from Univen and another in public administration from the University of Fort Hare. He passed away before completing a third PhD, in communication science, through Midlands State University in Zimbabwe.
As soon as news of his passing broke, messages of condolence poured in from various quarters. One of the institutions that paid tribute was the University of Venda, where he had served as both a lecturer and a council member. In a statement, university spokesperson Dr Takalani Dzaga expressed the institution's sadness. He said Dr Kone had served as manager of the then Univen Foundation.
"Dr Kone was a resolute leader and a passionate advocate for education and student support. His contributions to the University of Venda and the broader community were immense, and his commitment to helping students achieve their goals will be remembered fondly," he said.
Lephalale TVET College principal Mr Vicent Ngobeni described Dr Kone's death as a significant loss to the college and the country. "Dr Kone was recently appointed as the chairperson of the college council for a term that commenced in August 2024. Prior to this, he served on the council in several roles," he said.
Family spokesperson Mr Mulalo Masisi described Dr Kone as an academic giant. "We are saddened as a family. Kone was everything to the family. He loved us all and was a generous person who intervened in many instances, giving to the needy. He loved his education, and we fondly called him 'Doctor Squared' as he had two doctorates," he said.
A memorial service will be held in his honour at the Multipurpose Hall / Lutheran Church Cathedral on Friday, 18 April, starting at 13:30. His funeral will take place at the Thohoyandou Lutheran Church at 07:00.