Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has appointed Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely as the Acting Director-General of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD).
Sukhraj-Ely, who is totally blind, is an Advocate of the High Court with extensive experience in governance, constitutional law, disability rights, Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), public administration and policy development.
She holds a PhD in Public Policy and a Master of Arts in Political Science, awarded Cum Laude, and has built a career focused on advancing inclusive governance, democracy, and human rights.
As the state's representative on the Commission for Employment Equity, Sukhraj-Ely has advocated for a target of 7% employment of persons with disabilities by 2030.
She has also represented South Africa at international platforms, including the United Nations, the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), and the International Disability Alliance, promoting disability rights.
Her public service record includes contributing to the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, the development of the Femicide Strategy and the drafting of the Disability Access to Justice Policy.
Chikunga said the appointment signifies government's commitment to advancing equality, dignity, and inclusive leadership.
Welcoming Sukhraj-Ely to the department, Chikunga commended her integrity, legal expertise and understanding of constitutional mandates, especially in advancing rights for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
“The appointment underscores the government's focus on inclusive leadership and reflects efforts to promote equal representation,” the Minister said.
Chikunga expressed full confidence in her leadership to enhance the department's performance and promote rights and socio-economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
