Limpopo-born student who died before graduation identified

The University of the Free State student who collapsed before her graduation ceremony has been identified as Ms. Mulalo Nndwa of Masakona Village in the Vhembe District, Limpopo.

Nndwa, was due to graduate with a Master of Urban and Regional Planning, but sadly collapsed and died on campus a few moments before the ceremony on Friday, 17 April 2026.

The University confirmed the incident later on the day but did not divulge the name of the student.

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But according to information gathered by Limpopo Chronicle, Nndwa’s journey in higher education began in 2013 when she enrolled for a BA in Geography and Environmental Management.

She later completed her Honours in Spatial Planning before attaining her Master’s degree, marking years of consistent dedication to her field.

At the time of her passing, she was serving as a Town Planner Intern at the Free State Department of Education, where she contributed to land suitability assessments, Spatial Development Framework processes, and planning compliance work under SPLUMA.

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“It is with deep sadness that the University of the Free State (UFS) shares the news of the passing of one of our students on the Bloemfontein Campus on the afternoon of 17 April 2026,” said the university.

“The student was due to graduate on the afternoon of 17 April, but passed away on campus before the ceremony. The cause of death is not known at this stage.

“The university extends its heartfelt condolences to the student’s family, friends, and fellow students. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time, and we wish them strength as they come to terms with this loss.”

A memorial service will be held at the University of the Free State on Tuesday, 21 April 2026 at 09:00.