Quick Facts
| Full Name | Dr. Bonginkosi Emmanuel “Blade” Nzimande |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 14 April 1958 |
| Place of Birth | Edendale, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa |
| Current Role | Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation |
| Previous Roles | Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (2019–2024), Minister of Transport (2018–2019), Minister of Higher Education and Training (2009–2017) |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC), South African Communist Party (SACP) |
| Education | PhD in Sociology, University of Natal |
| Wife | Phumelele Ntombela-Nzimande |
| Children | Nkululeko and Lunga Nzimande |
| Publications | Children of Wars: The Impact of Violence on Schooling in Natal and various journal articles |
Early Life and Education
Dr. Blade Nzimande was born on 14 April 1958 in Edendale, Pietermaritzburg. He grew up during apartheid, which heavily influenced his political ideology and activism.
He attended Roman Catholic School and Georgetown High School, where he matriculated in 1975. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and Psychology from the University of Zululand. Later, he pursued advanced studies at the University of Natal, obtaining an Honours degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Industrial Psychology, and a PhD in Sociology. His doctoral thesis examined class formation and corporate dynamics in post-1973 South Africa.
Personal Life
Dr. Blade Nzimande is married to Phumelele Ntombela-Nzimande, a respected figure in her own right. Together, they have two children, Nkululeko and Lunga Nzimande, who are part of a close-knit family.
Political Career
Activism and Early Involvement
Nzimande began his activism during his university years, engaging in student protests against apartheid. He joined the Azanian Students’ Organisation (Azaso) and later aligned with the Congress Movement, inspired by underground ANC communications.
Government Leadership
Dr. Nzimande has held several high-profile positions in government:
- Minister of Higher Education and Training (2009–2017)
He oversaw the establishment of a dedicated department to expand access to higher education and vocational training. - Minister of Transport (2018–2019)
His tenure focused on improving transport infrastructure and safety across South Africa. - Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (2019–2024)
He merged education and science portfolios, fostering innovation-driven growth. - Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (2024–Present)
Dr. Nzimande currently leads South Africa’s drive to enhance scientific research and technological advancement.
Contributions to Academia
Dr. Nzimande has an extensive academic background, having lectured at the University of Zululand and the University of Natal in Industrial Psychology and Sociology. He is the author of several scholarly articles and books, including Children of Wars: The Impact of Violence on Schooling in Natal.
His research and writings often explore the intersection of politics, society, and education, cementing his legacy as both a scholar and a policymaker.