Panyaza Lesufi, the spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education, is the Media Liaison Officer of the Year 2012. The National Press Club presented Lesufi with the award at a ceremony in Pretoria on Friday, April 12.
National Press Club (NPC) chairperson Antoinette Slabbert said the club recognises excellence and annually awards Journalist and Photographer of the Year, Editor of the year and Media Liaison Officer of the Year. She said the winners are those people who have done exceptional work in their area of specialisation.
In his acceptance speech Lesufi dedicated his award to all the staff members at the department.
“I am truly humbled by this award. I could not have done it on my own, it’s a team effort and I thank everyone at the department for the hard work and support,” he said.
Lesufi said the award would motivate him to work even harder to serve the country with pride and commitment.
Lesufi steered the department out of the textbook saga in 2012 among some of the issues he has managed as part of his communications work.
The Director-General Bobby Soobrayan congratulated Lesufi, on his outstanding achievement of being awarded the Media Liaison Officer of the Year.
The National Press Club is made up of role-players across the communications field - journalists, news photographers and communication practitioners.
“This award is a significant one as it demonstrates the recognition of Mr Lesufi’s professionalism and unflagging energy and dedication to ensure that the media presence of Basic Education is a strong one. We are proud of him and we applaud Mr Lesufi on this well- deserved achievement,” said Soobrayan
He has previously worked as spokesperson at the South African Social Agency (SASSA), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and for the Ministry of Police.
Enquiries:
Panyaza Lesufi
Chief Director: Communications
Cell: 072 148 9575
