The New South Institute (NSI), the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), and the University of Pretoria will host a seminar on recent developments in public service reform in South Africa.

The seminar, titled South Africa’s Third Transition: Public Service Reform in Practice, will consider the implications of the Public Service Amendment Act and the broader reform agenda for accountability, administrative authority, professionalisation, succession planning, and state capacity.

Drawing on NSI’s ongoing research, including analysis of PERSAL data, the discussion will examine the demographic, institutional, and human resource strategy dynamics shaping the public service. It will also consider what available evidence reveals about the condition of government and the practical challenges involved in building a capable public administration.

Speakers

Ivor Chipkin
Director, New South Institute

Prof. Albert Wöcke
Professor, Gordon Institute of Business Science

Prof. Gerda van Dijk
Director, School of Public Management and Administration, University of Pretoria

Prof. Somadoda Fikeni
Chairperson of the Public Service Commission

Event details

Date: Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Time: 10:00 for 10:30
Venue: Economic and Management Sciences Building, SPMA Leadership Centre, University of Pretoria, corner of Lynnwood and University Roads, Hatfield

Attendees are requested to RSVP in advance. A PIN will be issued for access to the University of Pretoria campus.

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For more information, please contact Revati at info@nsi.org.za or 072 411 4056.