South Africa loses a beloved maths and science teacher
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South Africa loses a beloved maths and science teacher

written by Savanna Douglas August 21, 2024
South Africa loses a beloved maths and science teacher

SA’s favourite maths and science teacher – a familiar face on the nation’s small screen – William Smith, has passed away.

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The maths and science teacher, well-known for his educational day-time programme, Learning Channel on SABC, passed away at the age of 85 in Australia, surrounded by loved ones. Smith’s passing came after a short battle with cancer.

Smith’s classes on the Learning Channel became a staple for many students in the 1990s, after Smith received support from the national broadcaster to host the ‘open school’ on TV, giving learners across the nation access to free extra classes.

Smith became a familiar face for SA’s small screen day-time viewers, for his maths, science, biology and English classes.

As per the SABC, Smith held a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Chemistry from Rhodes University, and an Honors Degree in Chemistry from the same institution. He later obtained a master’s degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in a record of 7 months.

At 80-years-old, in recognition of his impactful contributions in the fields of maths and science, Smith was honoured with The Order of the Baobab by President Cyril Ramaphosa, reports Times Live. 

Smith spent his retired years in Australia with his family. The news of the beloved teacher’s passing was shared by his daughter, Jessica Smith Penfold.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Smith who left us peacefully today at home in Perth, Australia, surrounded by family,” said Smith’s daughter in a brief statement.

“He faced his final moments with grace, expressing contentment in his accomplishments and the impact he made in the fields of education and conservation. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the difference he made. William will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him,” said his family.

Tributes have poured in online for SA’s favourite maths and science teacher:

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Feature Image: X / The Kiffness 

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