The National Youth Development Agency welcomes the decision of the International Association of Athletics Federations to clear South Africa's South African 800 metres world champion, Caster Semenya to compete as a woman.
"At no point was the NYDA ever doubtful that Caster would be cleared and as such we celebrate without reservations her come back to the race track to rightfully compete amongst other female athletes," says NYDA Chairperson Andile Lungisa.
Lungisa says as a young woman, Caster has displayed a resilient character befitting of a sports champion throughout the ordeal.
"However, no human being should ever have to undergo such humiliation," he adds.
On the occasion of the return of Caster from competing in Berlin in August last year, the NYDA joined forces with young people and youth organisations in welcoming the golden girl back into the country to celebrate her magnificent achievements.
The NYDA continued to express its disappointment by the negative and humiliating reports that continued to cast doubt over the legitimacy of the young woman's gender, calling on all South Africans especially the youth to celebrate her achievements.
"We again remain confident that she will put all the stress caused by the ordeal that dragged for almost a year behind her and focus on both her bright sporting career as well as her studies," says Lungisa.
In line with the promotion of youth participation in sport and promotion of social cohesion, the NYDA will continue to advocate for opportunities for young people to participate in local and international sporting events both as competitors and volunteers.
"The NYDA contributed to the recruitment and training of volunteers for both the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup and we are very proud of what they have achieved," concludes Lungisa.
