Deputy President Paul Mashatile strongly believe that discussions and knowledge shared by scholars, influential leaders and policy makers at the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) conference will be invaluable in shaping the future of the country’s public administration.
The Deputy President was unable to attend the 24th annual SAAPAM conference currently taking place in Thohoyandou, Limpopo province due to urgent state commitments. This led to SAAPAM President, Prof. Kgothatso Shai to deliver the message of support to the conference delegates on behalf of Deputy President Mashatile.
“I understand the significance of the conference in addressing the prospects and challenges surrounding the enhancement of state capacity. I believe that the discussions and knowledge shared at the conference will be invaluable in shaping the future of public administration and management in South Africa,” read the Deputy President’s message.
He said the recognition by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) as a professional body will strengthen government’s undertaking of ensuring that the state is served by professionals who are competent, ethical and committed to the highest standards of public service.
“There is therefore no doubt that State capacity is about the values, skills, and integrity of those who serve, not just institutions and resources. A capable state is the bedrock upon which social and economic development rests. Without an efficient and professional public service, we cannot deliver quality education, reliable healthcare, effective policing, or the infrastructure that underpins growth and prosperity.
“We believe that a capable and developmental state refers to a government that has the essential resources and skills to successfully execute policies that foster economic growth and enhance the well-being of its citizens. This requires a knowledgeable and effective Public Service, strong institutions, and a dedication to tackling the fundamental issues of poverty and inequality,” he said.
A developmental, capable and ethical state requires skilled managers, especially Director-Generals (DGs) and Head of Departments (HoDs), with clear lines of authority and accountability to execute their duties in a way that achieves optimal outputs and agreed outcomes.
This he said, requires a political and administrative environment that is free from undue political interference, with effective systems, and with a consistent and fair application of rules.
He said government has placed professionalisation of the public service at the centre of its reform agenda. The two key priorities in this regard are:
- Building a meritocratic public service ensuring that appointments and career progression are based on merit, competence, and ethical conduct. This includes insulating the public service from undue political interference and creating conditions where excellence is rewarded and mediocrity is not tolerated.
- Continuous learning and capacity development creating a culture where public servants at all levels engage in lifelong learning, professional growth, and adherence to the highest standards of service delivery.
These priorities are already being advanced through the National Implementation Framework on the Professionalisation of the Public Service, which was adopted by Cabinet. This framework calls for pre-entry exams for senior managers, stronger accountability systems, and the alignment of qualifications and professional standards with the needs of the state.
Deputy President Mashatile said professional bodies such as SAAPAM are critical partners in ensuring that these priorities are achieved. He said SAAPAM is not only a professional body, but also a hub where the theory and practice of governance meet.
“Their voices, energy, and fresh perspectives must be part of shaping the capable state we all aspire to build. If we do not channel the energy and creativity of our young people into constructive service, we risk squandering a demographic dividend.
“Professional bodies like SAAPAM have a responsibility to open pathways for mentorship, internships, and career guidance that align with the demands of a professional public service. However, as we celebrate SAAPAM’s recognition, we must be honest about the challenges before us, which, among others, include skills shortages and uneven capacity, which are especially evident in municipalities, while declining public trust in institutions remains a serious concern and corruption and maladministration,” he said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also weighed in on the significance of building an ethical, capable and developmental State, as South Africa marked September as the Public Service Month, a time to focus on the essential contribution that the country’s 1.7 million public servants make to meeting the needs of the people.
It is through public servants, the President said, that government provides healthcare, education, policing, social services, and countless other essential functions that touch every South African’s life. “When our public service operates at its best, it is a powerful instrument for social and economic development. When it falters, it is often our most vulnerable citizens who bear the brunt.”
