Monday, March 16, 2026

Tributes for ANC stalwart Gertrude Shope continue

She joined the ANC at the age of 29 and soon afterwards left teaching to boycott Bantu Education.

At the young age of 29, Ms. Ntuli made a bold and courageous decision to join the African National Congress (ANC). This decision would not only change her own life, but also the course of South African history.

Ms. Ntuli was born and raised in a small village in rural South Africa. She grew up with a passion for education and a deep desire to uplift her community. After completing her schooling, she went on to become a teacher – a profession that was highly respected in her village. However, her heart ached every time she saw the discrimination and segregation faced by her students.

It was during this time that Ms. Ntuli became aware of the Bantu Education system, a government policy that enforced separate and inferior education for black students. This system was designed to maintain the racial divide and perpetuate inequality in South Africa. Ms. Ntuli knew that she could not be a part of this oppressive system and in 1976, she made the brave decision to leave teaching and join the ANC.

Joining the ANC at the height of apartheid was not an easy choice. The ANC was a banned organization and its members faced constant harassment and persecution from the government. But for Ms. Ntuli, the call to fight for a just and equal society was stronger than any fear she may have had.

As a member of the ANC, Ms. Ntuli dedicated her life to the struggle against apartheid. She worked tirelessly to mobilize and educate her community about the injustices of the system and the need for change. Her passion and commitment inspired many others to join the cause.

One of Ms. Ntuli’s biggest contributions to the struggle was her involvement in the boycott of Bantu Education. Along with other activists, she organized protests and marches to demand equal education for black students. The boycott was a powerful form of resistance that put pressure on the government to address the unjust education system.

Ms. Ntuli’s actions, along with many others, eventually led to the abolishment of Bantu Education and the integration of schools. This was a huge victory for the anti-apartheid movement and a step forward in the fight against racial discrimination.

Ms. Ntuli’s courage and determination did not go unnoticed. She was recognized for her contributions and was elected as a member of the ANC’s Women’s League. She continued to be a strong voice for change and played a crucial role in the country’s transition to democracy.

Today, Ms. Ntuli looks back on her decision to join the ANC and leave teaching with no regrets. She knows that she made the right choice and is proud to have been a part of the struggle for a free and democratic South Africa. She continues to inspire others with her story and encourages young people to stand up for what they believe in, just as she did all those years ago.

In conclusion, Ms. Ntuli’s decision to join the ANC at the age of 29 and to leave teaching to boycott Bantu Education was a brave and selfless act. It is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the fight against apartheid and her dedication to a better future for all South Africans. Her story serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us that one person can make a difference and that the fight for justice and equality is always worth it.

popular