Building Professional and Meritocratic Bureaucracies: The National School of Government’s Initiative in South Africa

South Africa’s National School of Government (NSG), in partnership with the University of South Africa (UNISA), is taking steps to achieve its vision of a professional and meritocratic bureaucracy in the midst of rapid globalization. On August 18, 2023, the NSG will host a Master-Class on “Building Professional and Meritocratic Bureaucracies: A Challenge for South Africa and the Global South” at ZK Matthews Great Hall, UNISA Muckleneuk Campus, Pretoria. This educational initiative aims to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for creating an ethical, capable, and developmental state.

Targeting Public Servants and Elected Officials

The Master-Class is intended for public servants and elected officials in the South African public service, aligning with the government’s Medium Term Strategic Framework of 2019-2024, which prioritizes building a developmental state. The NSG seeks to promote the creation of a professional and meritocratic bureaucracy, which is essential for socio-economic transformation and inclusive growth.

Keynote Speaker

Professor Zhang Weiwei, a distinguished professor of International Relations and Director of the China Institute at Fudan University, will deliver the Master-Class. He is a renowned Chinese thinker and a board member of China’s National Think Tanks Council. Prof. Zhang Weiwei will share his perspective on the evolution of the Chinese model of a civilizational state, which has lifted 800 million people out of poverty. He will also discuss how resilient institutions, led by skilled bureaucrats, have contributed to China’s success.

Importance of International Collaboration

The involvement of Professor Zhang Weiwei in this event emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and the exchange of ideas in addressing the challenges faced by the Global South. Furthermore, the attendance of former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe highlights the significance of the occasion.

Significance of the Master-Classes

The Master-Classes aim to equip public servants with knowledge and skills to navigate their everyday expectations in their respective work environments. The NSG has collaborated with local and international partners, South African government departments, and higher education institutions to deliver the Master-Classes and training for public sector officials. Attendance for this Master-Class requires registration through the provided link. Media enquiries and interview requests can be directed to the mentioned contact persons.

The Master-Class embodies the spirit of international collaboration and the exchange of ideas, aiming to promote the vision of building professional and meritocratic bureaucracies within South Africa and the Global South. The creation of a professional and meritocratic bureaucracy is essential for the socio-economic transformation and inclusive growth of the Global South.