The National School of Government (NSG) enhances public servants’ capabilities through training programs to equip them with essential digital skills pertinent to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
Recently, Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi addressed the National Assembly, affirming that these training initiatives are indeed in place to prepare public servants for the evolving digital landscape.
Minister Buthelezi emphasized that the NSG is committed to developing specialized courses focused on digital transformation. These courses cover Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Cybersecurity, cyber-physical systems, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Among the key offerings is the “Leading Digital Transformation in the Public Sector” program, which explicitly targets Chief Information Officers and digital technicians, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of digital governance.
To further promote digital literacy and the ethical application of technology within the public sector, the NSG has introduced the Advocacy Program for Digital Transformation. This initiative is designed for all public servants and aims to foster a culture of responsible digital engagement.
Recognizing the rapid pace of digital change, Minister Buthelezi highlighted the NSG’s establishment of strategic partnerships with various organizations.
These collaborations encompass a range of courses and conferences, underscoring a collective commitment to keeping public servants informed about the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in digital transformation.
Among the courses offered through these partnerships is a short learning program titled “Innovate and Digitally Transform the Public Sector,” developed in collaboration with the Institute National du Service Public (INSP) in France, the German Institute for Development and Sustainability (IDOS), and INSEAD.
Additionally, there are programs focused on “Innovation in the Age of Disruption” and “Design Thinking and Creativity for Business,” which are also in partnership with INSEAD.
The NSG has joined forces with the National Electronic Media Institution of South Africa (NEMISA), a public entity dedicated to ICT learning at all levels.
This partnership ensures that the NSG remains at the forefront of technological advancements in ICT, enabling it to offer innovative and relevant training to its course participants.
Through these initiatives, the NSG is preparing public servants for the demands of the 4IR and fostering a workforce adept at leveraging digital tools to enhance service delivery in the public sector.
