By BAKANG MOKOTO
North West University’ School of Government Studies hosted the first of the three legs of the Strong Nations for Africa Fellowship Programme from 28 July to 2 August 2024. The programme was co-designed and co-delivered by the Chandler Institute of Governance (CIG) in Singapore and the African Association of Public Administration and Management (AAPAM).
According to the North West University (NWU) principal and vice chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, the programme is tailored for senior African public sector leaders. Tyobeka said it aims to build a community of leaders committed to enhancing the quality of national governance in their respective countries.
He further said the programme brought together delegates from various African countries, who were accepted on merit after undergoing a rigorous selection process. Tyobeka added that the first leg of the initiative consists of various modules and was facilitated by respected academics and practitioners.
“They include Prof Kedibone Phago, Prof Piet Croucamp, Prof Lusanda Juta and Dr Christa de Wet from the NWU, Prof Siphamadla Zondi from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Prof Mammo Muchie from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
“Other facilitators were Bontle Lerumo from the Public Service Education and Training Authority (PSETA), Zukiswa Mqolomba from the Public Service Commission of South Africa (PSCSA), and Dr Botshabelo Maja from the National School of Government (NSG),” he said.
Tyobeka said the government must respond to societal needs by providing health, education and infrastructure services, among others. He said this programme provides a platform for public officials to polish their technical know-how and leadership skills, which will significantly contribute to the governance foundations of the African states.
“Throughout the week, participants engaged in facilitated discussions and learning journeys, experiencing first-hand examples of public policy and service delivery in South Africa.
“The outcomes of these discussions emphasised the need for collective action from all stakeholders, including government, civil society and individuals, to address ethical lapses and work towards a more just and equitable society,” said Tyobeka.
Notable speakers include Wu Wei Neng, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CIG and Dean of the Chandler Academy of Governance, and Dr John Nakabago, AAPAM president. Minister of Public Service and Administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, also delivered an inspiring address.
Buthelezi urged delegates to share knowledge and best practices.
“We urge you to think beyond borders to pursue local solutions to global challenges. We also encourage participants to make the most of this opportunity.
“Be proactive in sharing knowledge and best practices to enrich our collective approach to governance on the continent. Think beyond borders as you find local solutions that address global challenges,” he said.
On the final day, Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi, addressed the delegates. She is currently the chancellor of Nelson Mandela University and the recipient of an Honorary Doctoral Degree from the NWU in 2021.
“There is a framework to guide public administration and governance practices through the United Nations Committee of Experts on Public Administration principles, where I serve as the Chairperson of the Committee.
“This was a week of robust learning and networking. That has reinforced the programme’s mission to equip African public sector officials and leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to build solid nations for future generations,” said Fraser-Moleketi.
Meanwhile, the second leg of the programme will take place online from 12 to 16 August, while the third leg will take place in Singapore from 26 to 30 August, providing participants with a broader perspective on effective governance practices.
The Guardian 