Hilton College mourns death of talented matric learner

Abright young star, who was taken too soon. That’s how many remember talented Hilton College matric learner, Oyisa Pupuma, who died in a car crash on Saturday evening.

His uncle also died in the accident, in which the car the two men were travelling was reportedly hit by a truck on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.

In a statement, the school said they were devastated by Oyisa’s tragic passing.

“The sudden loss of a personality that has given us great energy, kindness, humility and humour is shattering,” Hilton College said.

“Among many other contributions to our school community, Oyisa has been a spirited champion of the arts, [performing] major roles in Hilton’s Joseph musical and the Funk performances. He was recently cast as a lead role in our upcoming production of The Tempest.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all Oyisa’s friends and family at this time, especially his parents, Dr Xanti Pupuma and Dr Noluthando Pupuma, his McKenzie

House brothers and Hilton staff members who have worked closely with him.”

The news also came to a blow to staff and learners at St Anne's Diocesan College, who knew Oyisa through his theatre and dance roles.

In a statement, the school said: “We send our deepest condolences to the Pupuma family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends, the Hilton College community and our staff and girls who knew Oyisa.”

Hundreds of people also paid tribute to Oyisa on Facebook with Ca Jardine Bray describing his as ‘an incredible talent’, adding: “RIP dearest Oyisa. Such a devastating loss for us all. Shine bright in the heavens. I hope they are all dancing with you there.”

Tamlyn Fanner, a former teacher of the matric learner, when he was a pupil at Felixton College in Zululand, said she would never forget his beaming smile.

And Sarah Wilson said of Oyisa: “You touched the lives of so many. You will be missed by us all. You were a brother, friend, companion and mate to so many. Go well.”