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Kabelo Zwane, sophomore in mechanical engineering, dies at age 21

The MIT community is mourning the loss of Kabelo Zwane, a 21-year-old sophomore from Swaziland who was studying mechanical engineering.

Zwane’s body was found Saturday, Nov. 7, in a wooded area in Bedford, Mass. The cause of death is still being investigated, but authorities have ruled out foul play.

MIT administrators have worked with diplomatic authorities in Washington and Swaziland throughout the week to notify Zwane’s family members; they were notified on Wednesday.

“The MIT community is deeply saddened by this terrible loss,” said Chancellor Phillip L. Clay. “Our thoughts are with Kabelo’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”

Holly Sweet, associate director of the Experimental Study Group, was Zwane’s freshman adviser. She said he was well-liked by his peers and teachers, and that his loss was felt strongly within ESG.

“He was one of the sweetest people I have ever met — hard-working, kind. We are all devastated by this,” she said about Zwane, who was a member of the Campus Crusade for Christ and the African Students Association. “It is just so tragic because he was a really good person and had so much to offer.”

MIT is making counseling services available. Those who feel affected by the tragedy are encouraged to contact Mental Health Service for assistance at 617-253-2916. The service also offers walk-in counseling between 2-4 p.m. every weekday on the third floor of E-23.

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