The Department of Public Service & Administration has published a framework document recommending the steps to be taken nationwide in the hope of professionalising South Africa’s public sector. Given that the document’s title qualifies the term ‘professionalisation’ with the word ‘towards’, the process envisaged may take some time.
According to the framework’s covering Government Gazette notice, it will begin with all ‘relevant institutions’ developing implementation plans by 1 April 2024.
This is noting that ‘professionalisation … is about changing individual attitudes, behaviour and performance’ and ‘observing and serving people with empathy, in accordance with the Constitution, Batho Pele principles and the Public Service Charter’.
‘Fundamental public sector reforms’ will focus on:
The head of public administration will be the Presidency’s Director-General, with ‘distinguished’ former senior public servants and representatives being utilised as mentors.
Published by SA Legal Academy Policy Watch