Pretoria: Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has welcomed the appointment of the new Board of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday.
According to South African Government News Agency, Chikunga stated that the newly appointed board embodies the diversity, insight, and urgency required to unlock the potential of more than twenty million young South Africans. Chikunga expressed her eagerness to work collaboratively with the new Board to advocate for the interests of the nation's youth and transform commitment into tangible opportunities.
The appointments were made in accordance with Section 9(1)(a) of the NYDA Act of 2008 and are set for a three-year term, commencing on 1 August 2025. The newly appointed board members include Kelly Sandra Baloyi, Thembisile Precious Mahuwa, Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya, Sibusiso Makhathini, Dr. Wiseman Mfaniseni Mbatha, Dr. Sunshine Minenhle Myende, and Busisiwe Nandipha Nxumalo.
In compliance with Section 9(5)(a) of the NYDA Act, President Ramaphosa has designated Dr. Sunshine Minenhle Myende as the Chairperson of the board and Mr. Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya as the Deputy Chairperson. Chikunga also extended her appreciation to the outgoing Interim Board, whose term concludes on 31 July 2025, acknowledging their service and dedication to the development of South Africa's youth.