The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has noted and welcomes the Sowetan newspaper apology published on page 2 of today’s, 22 March 2013 Sowetan to the NYDA CEO for referring to him as disorganised in a front page article (accompanied by Ngubeni’s photo) published by the newspaper on 20 March 2013.
In the article which was meant to report on a Conference hosted by the South African Youth Council (SAYC) the Sowetan newspaper unnecessarily published a photograph of the NYDA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with a caption “disorganised.”
At the time the NYDA CEO raised his discontent with the article and the fact that it sensationally attributed blame to the NYDA and its CEO, for alleged challenges that were experienced during the hosting of the SAYC conference.
In a statement addressed to the Sowetan and other media Ngubeni said “It is hard to comprehend how alleged “logistical problems” at a conference of the South African Youth Council (SAYC) could warrant an attack on the NYDA and labelling of its leadership.”
Responding to today’s Sowetan newspaper apology Ngubeni said “The NYDA and its leadership has for some time been victims of unwarranted attacks and sensational news reports from various media, aided by the Democratic Alliance Youth. We therefore welcome this apology and recognition of error on the part of the Sowetan newspaper and we hope that it will provide some sobriety on the part of the media when dealing with reports that relates to the NYDA.”
The NYDA wishes to reiterate that while it respects the newspapers right to collect and publish information, such must at all times be done in a factual and accurate manner. “We further urge the media to balance their focus in reporting and profile the work that the NYDA is doing to improve the lives of young people, such that ordinary people are able to read about stories of hope that can help inspire other young people who are desperate to change and improve their lives for the better,” concludes Ngubeni.
For media enquiries contact:
Siyabonga Magadla
Cell: 083 686 9016
