Add to this the collapse of key state-owned enterprises, state capture accusations and the ever increasing occurrence of high-level corruption and it is clear why South Africans have reason to be concerned.
These and other current affairs issues took centre stage during the recent North-West University’s (NWU’s) Alumni Business Breakfast that took place in Vanderbijlpark.
The network session saw a panel of experts take to the podium to discuss the recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) as delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as the national Budget Speech delivered by the now former Minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba.
Leading the panel discussion was Max Boqwana, the chief executive officer of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation. He was joined by NWU experts, Prof Danie Meyer from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, Prof Ilyayambwa Mwanawina, from the Faculty of Law and Duncan Mthembu Nkosi, a postgraduate student from the Faculty of Humanities.
During the panel discussions the experts agreed that South Africa is in dire need of servant leadership and explained that during times of political, social and economic uncertainties, servant leaders need to rise to the occasion and challenge the lines of least resistance in an effort to effect sustainable change.
“Leaders cannot expect to be held in high respect and obedience simply because of their political affiliations and status,” explained Boqwana. He added that it cannot be expected from the ruling party to be both the cause and the cure for SA’s political woes.
He continued by saying that true inspirational servant leadership will give way to greater trust and awaken each citizen’s internal vigilance. The latter referring to accountable leaders who are open to public scrutiny and who is prepared to explain their actions – and inactions – at all times.
Both Prof Ilyayambwa and Prof Meyer agreed that the so-called “new dawn” – as hinted at in the SONA address – brings with it challenges and opportunities. From a legal stance, Prof Ilyayambwa focused on accountability as a democratic value and as such suggested that the social contract between government and citizens should be reviewed.
Talking to the national Budget Speech, Prof Danie Meyer explained that a lack of agreement, leadership and coordination is hampering the vision of the National Development Plan. “South Africa has the potential to re-emerge as a global economic player. With the positive political winds of change and the effort to return to ethical governance, the future looks promising for South Africa,” he said.
* The annual NWU Alumni Business Breakfast is hosted by the Alumni Relations Office on the campus in Vanderbijlpark and brings together alumni, friends of the university, community members and industry experts.
Duncan Mthembu Nkosi, Max Boqwana, Prof Danie Meyer and Prof Ilyayambwa Mwanawina were the panel members during the recent NWU Alumni Business Breakfast.
The annual business breakfast saw alumni, friends of the university, community members and industry experts in attendance.
