Public Service Administration Minister Buthelezi calls for professionalization of SOEs
Public Service Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi has emphasized the need to professionalize State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) as a crucial step toward building an effective and ethical public sphere.
Speaking at the Public Protector’s conference on promoting good governance in Ekurhuleni on Monday, Buthelezi outlined key elements of this professionalization initiative, which aims to enhance integrity, competence, and citizen-focused service delivery in public institutions.
The Core of Professionalisation: Competency-Based Recruitment
One of the pillars of professionalizing SOEs, according to Buthelezi, is implementing competency-based recruitment processes. This approach ensures that positions within SOEs are filled based on merit, qualifications, and demonstrated capabilities rather than political considerations or nepotism.
“Competency-based recruitment will empower SOEs to attract skilled professionals who are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of public service,” Buthelezi noted. He added that this shift would not only improve operational efficiency but also rebuild public trust in the integrity of state institutions.
Training and Capacity Building for Officials
Professionalization also involves comprehensive training programs for officials within SOEs. Buthelezi stressed the importance of equipping public servants with the knowledge and tools necessary to address contemporary challenges in governance and service delivery.
“Continuous training is key to ensuring that officials stay abreast of evolving best practices and technological advancements in public administration,” he explained. Such training would not only boost the competence of individual employees but also enhance the overall functionality of SOEs.
Ethical Leadership as a Cornerstone
At the heart of Buthelezi’s vision is the establishment of ethical leadership within SOEs. He emphasized that integrity and accountability must be non-negotiable traits for those entrusted with public responsibilities.
“Ethical leadership ensures that decision-making is guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and a commitment to the public good,” he said. Buthelezi added that leaders who embody these values would be better positioned to resist corruption and foster a culture of accountability throughout their organizations.
Embedding Principles into the Public Service Framework
The Department of Public Service and Administration has been actively working to integrate these professionalization principles into the broader public service framework. According to Buthelezi, this involves creating policies and guidelines that institutionalize integrity, competence, and ethical leadership across all levels of government.
“Professionalisation in this context will ensure that those entrusted with public responsibilities serve with integrity, competence, and an unwavering focus on the needs of the people,” he remarked. This framework is designed to standardize practices across SOEs, ensuring consistent and high-quality service delivery nationwide.
Addressing Governance Challenges in SOEs
South Africa’s SOEs have long been plagued by inefficiencies, financial mismanagement, and allegations of corruption. Buthelezi acknowledged these challenges, highlighting professionalization as a critical step in addressing them.
“Professionalising SOEs is not just about improving efficiency; it is about restoring public confidence and ensuring that these institutions contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
By aligning SOEs with best practices in governance and management, the government aims to create entities that are both accountable and impactful.
The Role of Public Participation
Buthelezi also stressed the importance of engaging citizens in the professionalization process. He argued that public participation is essential for fostering a sense of ownership and trust in the government’s reform initiatives.
“When citizens see that their voices are heard and their needs are prioritized, they are more likely to support and cooperate with public institutions,” he said.
This engagement can take the form of consultations, feedback mechanisms, and transparent communication about reforms and their progress.
Conclusion: A Path Toward Sustainable Governance
The professionalization of SOEs represents a significant step toward achieving sustainable governance in South Africa. By focusing on competency-based recruitment, training, and ethical leadership, the government aims to build institutions that are efficient, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people.
Minister Buthelezi’s call to action underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms that address longstanding issues in public administration.
As these principles are embedded into the public service framework, the government hopes to pave the way for a more effective and trustworthy public sphere, ultimately fostering national growth and development.
