Minister of Arts and Culture Minister Mr Paul Mashatile, today confirms the dissolution of the board of the Pan South African Languages Board (PanSALB). The termination of the board's term of office, took effect on 13 June 2012. The move follows a governance review of the functioning of the organisation, which was undertaken by Minister Mashatile.
"This is the first step toward, ensuring a PANSALB that truly meets its mandate. Language rights are enshrined in our country's constitution. Everything must be done to ensure its development and protection. The importance of multilingualism to South African society cannot be overstated," said Mashatile.
In recent months the language board, which consisted of seven members, came under heavy criticism from both the public and the Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture, for failing to meet its obligations as required by the Act.
PanSALB was established by parliament (Act 59 of 1995, amended by Act 10 of 1999) to develop the country's 11 official languages, and promote multilingualism. The PanSALB Act mandates that it initiate studies and research aimed at promoting and creating conditions for the development of all 11 official languages, plus the Khoi, San and South African sign language.
The disbanding of the board is unlikely to cause major disruption to the functioning of the statutory body. Mr Mxolisi Zwane has been appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer until a new board is appointed.
The department is working toward speeding up the process of appointing a new board.
A call for nominations has already been issued.
Contact:
Mack Lewele
Cell: 082 450 5076
Percy Mthimkhulu
Cell: 082 389 2684
