MEDIA STATEMENT
19 September 2023
SAAPAM TO HOST ITS 22ND ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) is pleased to announce that it will be hosting its annual Conference in collaboration with the University of South Africa and Tshwane University of Technology which will be held from 24 – 29 September 2023 at Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni. This year’s conference theme is “Repositioning African Governments in the Changing Global Order and Disorder.”
The SAAPAM conference serves as a platform for scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on the challenges and opportunities faced by African governments in today’s rapidly changing global landscape. With the increasing complexities brought about by globalization, technological advancements, environmental concerns, and shifting political dynamics, it has become imperative for African governments to re-evaluate their strategies and adapt to these evolving circumstances. The conference has introduced Policy Labs where government department heads will engage with academics to find solutions on various issues. The Departments that will present are Public Service and Administration (DPSA), National School of Government (NSG), Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation(DPME) and Public Service Sector Education Training Authority (PSETA).
This year’s theme, “Repositioning African Governments in the Changing Global Order and Disorder,” highlights the need for proactive leadership, innovative policies, effective governance structures, and sustainable development approaches within African nations. It aims to foster dialogue surrounding key issues such as economic transformation, social inclusion, digitalization, climate change adaptation, regional integration, governance reforms, and public service delivery.
The conference will also feature prominent speakers, including former South African President Thabo Mbeki, government ministers, and leaders from civil society organizations. The conference aims to address critical issues related to public administration and management in South Africa. Former President Thabo Mbeki is expected to deliver an address at the conference. His wealth of experience in governance and leadership makes him a highly anticipated speaker. Known for his expertise in diplomacy, economic development, and social justice, Mbeki’s insights are expected to provide valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing public administration in South Africa.
In addition to Mbeki, various government ministers will also be addressing the conference. These include ministers from different portfolios such as Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Electricity, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Public Service and Administration, Justice and Correctional Services and Higher Education and Training. Their presence underscores the importance that the South African government places on effective public administration and management as crucial components for national development.
Furthermore, leaders from civil society organizations will share their experiences and knowledge during panel discussions and workshops at the conference. These individuals have been actively involved in advocating for good governance, accountability, transparency, and citizen participation. Their contributions will shed light on innovative approaches to addressing societal issues and fostering collaboration between government institutions and civil society.
During the conference, more than 600 attendees can expect engaging keynote speeches from renowned academics and experts from various disciplines who will share over 500 research findings and insights through paper presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and plenary sessions. Interactive panel discussions on relevant topics such as Globalization of economies, Public policy Leadership and managing human capital and international relations, governance structures, and ethical considerations in public administration. Additionally, there will be workshops focused on building practical skills essential for Postgraduate students and emerging researchers.
Overall, the diverse range of speakers at the SAAPAM conference reflects a commitment to engaging multiple stakeholders in shaping policies and practices that promote efficient public administration and management. It provides an opportunity for dialogue, learning, and networking among professionals working towards improving governance outcomes in South Africa. This conference is considered one of the biggest academic conferences in Social Sciences in the Republic of South Africa.
Ends.
Enquires
Dr John Molepo (SAAPAM@tut.ac.za)
0767502300
For Media Accreditation
Walter Matshwi
+27 79 559 2220
May you please focus on Department of agriculture, rural development and land reform, specifically on Communal property associations as they can contribute a lot into the country’s GDP and poverty elevation but because of the corruption, gross negligency and bad faith of the chief directors, directors and deputy directors the Cpa’s are not flourishing due to non compliance, maladministration and corruption.