Getting to grips with govt capacity and delivery

There is legitimate concern about the effectiveness of the South African public service and about its ability to respond to the democratic and developmental challenges of the country. While these worries have produced endless debate, most of this focuses on two issues - affirmative action and the politicisation of senior government management. What too many of us fail to consider is the history of the public sector, the many significant changes that have taken place, and the impact that these changes have had on the situation today. Persistent failure to understand and consider these issues will continue to result in conversations that are at best, only partly informed.

Join Professor Ivor Chipkin as he discusses key circumstances from the 1990's that fundamentally changed the organisation and management of the South African public sector; illustrates the principles that informed these changes; shows the dramatic impact these changes have had on the public sector, and asks whether ideas that appeared promising in theory have actually worked in practice. During this discussion Professor Chipkin will touch on the potential for 'public-private partnerships', state engagement with corporate South Africa, and the so-called 'enabling environment' for civil society enshrined in various pieces of legislation.

Professor Chipkin will then open debate on options for going forward, including improved cross-sectoral cooperation for transformation and sustainable development, and a more robust engagement with civil society.

Date: 03 August 2010
Venue: Sasol Polymers: 56 Grosvenor Road, Bryanston
Cost: NGO R228 , Corporate R285 (INCL VAT)