The North-West University's (NWU’s) School of Government Studies proudly hosted the first of three legs of the Strong Nations for Africa Fellowship Programme from 28 July to 2 August 2024.
The programme, co-designed and co-delivered by the Chandler Institute of Governance (CIG) in Singapore and the African Association of Public Administration and Management (AAPAM), is tailored for senior African public sector leaders. It aims to build a community of leaders committed to enhancing the quality of national governance in their respective countries.
The programme brought together delegates from various African countries, who were accepted on merit after undergoing a rigorous selection process.
The first leg of the initiative consisted of various modules, facilitated by respected academics and practitioners. They included 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, and Prof Mammo Muchie from the Tshwane University of Technology. Other facilitators were Bontle Lerumo from the Public Service Education and Training Authority, Zukiswa Mqolomba from the Public Service Commission of South Africa, and Dr Botshabelo Maja from the National School of Government.
Notable speakers included Wu Wei Neng, chief executive officer of the CIG and dean of the Chandler Academy of Governance, and Dr John Nakabago, AAPAM president. Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, Minister of Public Service and Administration also delivered an inspiring address, urging delegates to share knowledge and best practices and think beyond borders to pursue local solutions to global challenges.
Prof Dumi Moyo, the executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities and programme director, guided the week's events. Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, welcomed everyone, and expressed the university's pride in hosting the event. He underscored the significance of investing in state capacity to improve the African continent.
"Our governments must respond to societal needs by providing health, education and infrastructure services, among others. 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 our 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.
Prof Phago highlighted that hosting an event of this magnitude will further consolidate the position of the NWU – not only as a catalyst for capacity building, but also in encouraging intellectual governance discourses on continental and global platforms. “In this way, the achievement of the national development goals of the various African countries, AU Agenda 2063 and the UN SDG 2030 become more attainable.”
Minister Buthelezi encouraged 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."
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.
Dr Fraser-Moleketi provided a framework to guide public administration and governance practices through the United Nations Committee of Experts on Public Administration principles where she serves as committee chairperson. Her insights rounded off a week of robust learning and networking, reinforcing 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.
The second leg of the programme will take place online from 12 to 16 August. The third leg will take place in Singapore from 26 to 30 August, providing participants with a broader perspective on effective governance practices.
The Strong Nations for Africa Fellowship Programme continues to serve as a beacon of excellence in public administration and governance, fostering a new generation of leaders dedicated to advancing governance on the African continent.
The NWU's School of Government Studies proudly hosted the first of three legs of the Strong Nations for Africa Fellowship Programme
On the final day, Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi addressed the delegates
On the final day, Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi addressed the delegates
Prof Dumi Moyo, the executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities and programme director, guided the week's events
