Online Reporter
Ronald Mpofu
PLUMTREE is in mourning following the sudden death of a beloved school nurse who dedicated more than a decade of his life to caring for students, staff and the community.
Mzingaye Ncube (54) collapsed and died in the early hours of July 13 at his residence within the Plumtree High School compound, sending shock-waves through the school and the wider community.
Known as the gentle healer of Plumtree High, Ncube had worked at the school since September 28, 2010, faithfully serving as the resident nurse for one of the biggest boarding schools in Matabeleland South.
Whether it was tending to sick learners, treating sports injuries or providing medical assistance to fellow staff members, Ncube was always on hand with a calm voice and steady hands.
His sudden death around 5AM came as a crushing blow to colleagues and pupils who regarded him as more than just a nurse, but a father figure and a friend.
“He was an open and jovial person,” said long-time friend Nobert Ndlovu.” Plumtree is in great loss as a community. Ncube used to assist people of all backgrounds. He was well known by almost every resident in Plumtree for his work and kindness.”
Ncube’s dedication was not limited to his job. His children attended Plumtree High, and he treated every learner like his own. In school corridors, his presence was reassuring. In sports fields, he was the one patching up scraped knees and checking pulses.
Staff members have already begun mobilising to support the grieving family, with many describing his passing as not just a school loss but a community tragedy.
He is survived by his wife Sitheni Ncube and two sons, Nhlanhla and Nhlalo Ncube.
Mr Ncube will be laid to rest this Saturday at Magatroidy Cemetery in Plumtree town.
The empty nurse’s station at the school now serves as a painful reminder of a man whose compassion left an indelible mark on countless lives.
