Zuma appoints new youth board

Independent Newspapers

President Jacob Zuma. File Photo: Masi Losi

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 Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has appointed a new board for the National Youth Development Agency, the presidency said on Friday.

The seven board members are: Xoliswa Ayanda Bambiso, Zandile Majozi, Mothupi Phaladi Modiba, Itiseng Kenny Morolong, Maropene Lydia Ntuli, Yershen Pillay and Nyalleng Potloane.

“Mr Pillay is the designated chairman of the board and Mr Itiseng Kenny Morolong is the deputy chairman,” spokesman Mac Maharaj said.

The NYDA has been operating without a board since May.

The new appointees were recommended to Zuma by the National Council of Provinces ad hoc committee on the NYDA.

The youth organisation has been marred by allegations of mismanagement of funds and payments of hefty bonuses.

There were several calls to disband the NYDA after it hosted the unsuccessful World Festival of Youth and Students in December 2010.

The nine-day event was dubbed the “kissing festival” after delegates were seen playing kissing games while waiting for sessions to begin.

It was plagued by disorganisation and reportedly went R100 million over budget. Several speakers failed to turn up.

The NYDA reportedly spent millions on balloons, confetti, musicians, poets, backpacks, caps, golf shirts, bottled water, and even a tombstone for the event.

The new board is appointed for a period of three years. - Sapa