NLC honours former chairperson Pityana at farewell public lecture
The event celebrated Pityana’s contribution to public service and ethical leadership while reflecting on his tenure at the commission.
South Africa.- The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) has paid tribute to outgoing board chair Professor Barney Pityana, praising his role in restoring governance and public confidence in the organisation during a farewell public lecture held at Walter Sisulu University in Komani, Eastern Cape, on July 9.
The event, held under the theme “Improving Quality of Life for All, Unlocking the Potential of Every Person – Through Equality and Opportunity,” celebrated Pityana’s contribution to public service and ethical leadership while reflecting on his tenure at the commission.
Speaking at the lecture, deputy minister of trade, industry and competition Zuko Godlimpi thanked Pityana for accepting an appointment to the NLC board at a time when the regulator faced significant governance challenges. Godlimpi said: “He accepted the role when the institution was in perennial crisis. Its public reputation was low.”
NLC commissioner Jodi Scholtz also acknowledged Pityana’s leadership, describing it as one rooted in service, constitutional values and a commitment to improving the lives of South Africans.
According to Scholtz, Pityana’s approach to leadership was guided by love for the people of South Africa, dedication to public service and the pursuit of equality and justice.
Former Competition Commission commissioner Tembinkosi Bonakele, who also addressed the gathering, credited Pityana with strengthening governance within the NLC. He said: “Professor Pityana has always been our inspiration to us all at the NLC, and he was a bulwark against corruption.”
In his farewell address, Pityana reflected on the importance of freedom and democratic values, telling attendees that “freedom is living without fear” and that genuine liberation cannot exist without freedom.
The lecture aligns with the commission’s broader efforts to promote dialogue on leadership, equality and nation-building while recognising Pityana’s contribution to rebuilding the institution following years of governance and reputational challenges.
The event follows the appointment of King Tembinkosi Bonakele as new chairperson of the NLC board and Mpho Sonia Mosing as a board member. The new board is expected to build on ongoing governance reforms while strengthening accountability and oversight across the commission.
