Mtutuzeli Michael "Mike" Nyati

Michael was a teacher at heart. He as passionate about learning - life long learning and was loved imparting knowledge to the younger generation. He was blessed with a sharp brain, wit, sense of humour and love for people.

He made friends wherever he went. He spent a fair percentage of his life in Ngqeleni district as a teacher of note. He became the principal of Ntlaza Senior Secondary School. It is at this time that he became friends with Mr Mbambisa - who was a circuit inspector.

He respectfully referred to him Mkhuluwa (elder brother) whilst Mr Mbambisa called him Mninawa (younger brother). He was pursuaded by Mr Mbambisa to go start a senior secondary school at Tabase Mission. Mninawa originally came from the Esikhobeni location, a small village close to Tabase Mission.

Michael obliged and subsequently started Jumba Senior Secondary School. The school was a major success. He handed it over to Mr Makaula from Mt Frere. He was promoted to go and become a principal of Arthur Tshengiwe Teacher Training College in Cala. He was joined by his son Vulisango Nyati who subsequently met his ex-wife Lindiwe Makhobokoane. Later he became a circuit inspector and then a curriculum advisor for the former Transkei.

General Bantu Holomisa, in his drive to increase employment in the former Transkei, forced all public sector employees over the age of 55 to retire. Mike fell under this category and was affected. This decision caught him by surprise and negatively affected him for the rest of his life. His wife Annie Nombeko Nyati died in April 2005.

Again, this event left him without the support that he had become used to. His life deteriorated drastically. He was cared for by his son - Dr Fundile Nyati - who saw to his every need. He died of stroke at the Umtata hospital in May 2007. He lived a full life. He enjoyed his life. He was loved.