The Integrated Public Service Month (IPSM) for this year was officially launched on Thursday, highlighting the crucial role played by the public service in fostering economic growth and development.
Ms. Noxolo Kiviet, the Minister of the Public Service and Administration, shared her perspective on the significance of this event at the launch that took place in East London, Eastern Cape.
In addition to recognizing the resilience of government institutions in addressing challenges, Minister Kiviet emphasized the importance of acknowledging the resilience exhibited by public servants saying the character, ethos, and spirit of public servants are fundamental drivers of progress within government institutions.
Minister Kiviet emphasized that the strength and adaptability of public servants, particularly during turbulent times, are of utmost importance.
“The resilience of public servants not only helps navigate challenges but also contributes to the establishment of a robust, inclusive, and compassionate public service system,†she said.
Minister Kiviet said through unity, collaboration, and the celebration of diversity, the IPSM activities envision and actively construct a brighter future.
“These endeavours should serve as a catalyst for a reinvigorated and regenerated cadre of public servants who are not only well-equipped but also deeply committed to the challenges of service delivery,†Minister Kiviet said.
The Public Service Month is an extension of the Africa Public Service Day, demonstrating the African Union’s (AU) commitment to promoting public service excellence throughout the continent.
Minister Kiviet highlighted that this year’s Public Service Month holds even greater significance for South Africa, following the successful hosting of the BRICS Summit, which showcased the country’s pivotal role and influence in global affairs.
She emphasized that an integrated methodology for the IPSM fosters a collaborative spirit, where solutions and strategies emerge from collective wisdom. This approach ensures more comprehensive, inclusive, and effective outcomes for public service delivery.
During this month, the government aims to harness the collective power of public servants and illuminate the path forward with shared insights. By emphasizing capability-building, the state showcases its dedication to leadership and learning, recognizing its inherent interconnectedness. This commitment ensures that the public service remains responsive, resilient, and relevant in an ever-evolving landscape. The National School of Government (NSG) plays a central role in this endeavour, contributing to state capability.
Minister Kiviet said the 2023 IPSM also arrives at a pivotal juncture as the government charts its course towards recovery from various challenges, including the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and global economic stagnation. The IPSM promotes the professionalization of the public service, with the aim of building a capable developmental state that provides effective, efficient, and development-oriented public service.
Objectives of the IPSM include:
- Reminding public servants about the meaning of service.
- Assessing the impact of government’s service delivery.
- Recommitting and rededicating public servants to the ethos of Batho Pele.
- Instilling pride in being a public servant and improving the morale of public servants.
- Enhancing the health and wellness of public servants.
- Integrating all September month activities that the government typically commemorates, such as Arbor Day/Week, Heritage Day/Month, Tourism Day/Month, and Police Day.
By focusing on these objectives, the IPSM aims to create a more effective and people-centric public service that meets the needs of the nation.
