Thulas Nxesi appointed Deputy Minister
Education International congratulates Thulas Nxesi on his appointment as the Deputy Minister for Rural Development and Land Reform. Mr Nxesi served as Education International's president from 2004-2009.
The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) has also welcomed the appointment of its former General Secretary. A statement on SADTU's website says: "SADTU has no doubt in Nxesi’s abilities in handling this portfolio. Nxesi is a pragmatist and true revolutionary who always fought for democracy, human rights, social justice and empowered the poor and marginalized in South Africa." EI General Secretary Fred van Leeuwen said: "I congratulate Thulas on his appointment. During his time of service with EI, and during his time of service as General Secretary of SADTU, he has shown his outstanding abilities." Mr Nxesi was elected General Secretary of SADTU in 1995. He served in this function until joining the South African Parliament in May 2009. To date, he was chairperson of the International Relations and Corporation Portfolio Committee. SADTU's membership grew from 20,000 members to 200,000 in his time in office.
