Advancing Professionalism in the South African Public Sector

The Public Service Commission (PSC) of South Africa collaborated with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the National School of Government (NSG), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organize a two-day retreat focused on the National Framework Towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector. The event, which took place from July 13th to 14th, 2023, in Krugersdorp, aimed to bring together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for implementing the framework and addressing challenges faced by the South African public sector.

Uniting Key Stakeholders and Strategizing Political Leadership

The retreat aimed to identify priorities for short, medium, and long-term implementation and to establish a working group and steering committee to oversee the framework’s effective implementation. Participants included the Minister for Public Service and Administration, Ms. Noxolo Kiviet, the Principal of the National School of Government, Mr. Busani Ngcaweni, the Commissioner of the National Planning Commission, Professor Mashupye Maserumule, the Chairperson of the PSC, Professor Somadoda Fikeni, and Dr. Ayodele Odusola, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme in South Africa.

Addressing Challenges in the South African Public Sector

The event also hosted a panel discussion centered on the challenges faced by the South African Public Sector and how the Professionalisation Framework could help address these issues. Attendees included Director-General of the Department of Public Service and Administration, Ms. Yoliswa Makhasi, and Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms. Maropene Ramokgopa.

Developing Comprehensive Action Plan

The retreat aimed to develop a comprehensive and sequential action plan while addressing change management processes, capacity challenges, and incentives for behavioral change. Through a series of workshops and panel discussions, participants were able to contextualize the Professionalisation Framework in terms of paradigm change, public sector reform, character formation, and capability. This holistic approach allowed attendees to delve into the complexities of the public sector and explore various aspects of professionalism.

Success of the Retreat

By fostering an environment of collaboration and fruitful discussions, this retreat offered a unique opportunity to share insights and devise strategies aimed at promoting professionalism in the public sector. The partnerships forged between the PSC, DPSA, NSG, and UNDP ensured a continued focus on addressing South Africa’s public sector challenges. The event succeeded in identifying key priorities and crafting a roadmap that will guide efforts towards the professionalisation of South Africa’s public sector.

The Way Forward

As the South African government recognizes the importance of a professional public sector, the implementation of the National Framework Towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector will undoubtedly lead to the development of a more efficient, effective, and professional public service in South Africa. With continued dedication from all stakeholders, South Africa’s public sector can look forward to a future of increased professionalism and excellence.