Windhoek: Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp on Thursday announced the appointment of the interim board of the National Youth Council (NYC) at the Government Information Centre.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the appointments were approved by Cabinet on 23 September 2025, and they will take effect from 01 October 2025. The interim board will serve for six months until 31 March 2026, or until a substantive board is constituted in line with the National Youth Council Act, whichever comes first.

The new interim board is chaired by Kennedy Kariseb, with Iyaloo Ndapandula Shiimi as deputy chairperson. Other members include Unombuiro Unoo Kauteza, Patience Masua, Malwa Christine Ndapewa Francisco, Jamie Theron, Ester Meameno Shitana, Donna Gamatham, and Almandro Jansen.

Steenkamp stated that the appointees are tasked with providing strategic guidance and oversight in the governance of the council. They are expected to uphold accountability and transparency while advancing the mandate of youth development in Namibia.

'The National Youth Council must remain a vital platform for youth participation, leadership, and development. We trust that the interim board will steer the institution with integrity and ensure continuity during this transition,' she said.

She extended her congratulations to the members and urged them to work collaboratively with stakeholders to strengthen youth empowerment initiatives across the country.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to placing young people at the centre of national development, noting that the NYC remains an important bridge between government and the youth.