Unlocking leadership potential in South African government

In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, the discussion focused on unlocking leadership potential within the South African government. The conversation highlighted the importance of investing in the development of leaders at all levels within public institutions to drive effective governance and service delivery. Professor Alex van den Heever, Chair of Social Security Systems Administration and Management Studies at Wits School of Governance, and Caren Scheepers, Professor in Leadership at the Gordon Institute of Business Science, shared valuable insights on the topic. One of the key points raised in the discussion was the critical distinction between political leaders and administrative heads within government departments. Professor Van den Heever emphasized the need for political leaders to establish legitimacy and enable strategic conversations within their departments, while administrative heads should focus on managing resources and implementing strategies effectively. The lack of understanding of these roles often hinders leadership effectiveness and organizational functionality. Furthermore, emotional intelligence and a people-centric approach were highlighted as essential qualities for leaders in both the public and private sectors. Professor Scheepers emphasized the importance of inspirational leadership, vision, and the ability to connect with people to drive organizational success. The need for leaders to embrace change and foster a supportive environment for their teams was also emphasized. The conversation delved into the role of educational institutions, like the School of Governance and Business Schools, in preparing future leaders for public service. Both professors acknowledged the importance of training and development programs in equipping aspiring leaders with the necessary skills and competencies. They also emphasized the need for a holistic approach that incorporates input from both the public and private sectors to drive innovation and collaboration. Public-private partnerships were highlighted as a key avenue for driving development and enhancing service delivery in South Africa. The professors cited successful examples of collaboration between sectors, such as the Gautrain project, as evidence of the positive impact of such partnerships. However, they also underscored the importance of integrative leadership and the need for leaders to bridge the gap between different organizational cultures. The discussion also touched upon the need for integrity in leadership selection and the importance of maintaining a high standard of competency in public institutions. Both professors emphasized the detrimental effects of patronage politics and stressed the importance of having leaders who are dedicated to serving the public good. In conclusion, the conversation shed light on the strides being made in developing leadership within the South African government. By investing in training programs, fostering collaboration between sectors, and emphasizing integrity and competency in leadership, the path to effective governance and sustainable development is being paved. As the country navigates through political transitions and challenges, building a pipeline of capable and ethical leaders remains crucial for driving positive change and ensuring a bright future for all citizens.