CIG and South Africa PSC Launch Programme to Enhance Public Sector Professionalisation

November 4, 2024

Honourable Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, Minister of Public Service and Administration (fourth from left, first row), Professor Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson, Public Service Commission (third from left, first row) and Ms Sin Xin Ping, Deputy Dean (Programmes), CIG (fourth from right, first row) with the participants of the Constitutional Values and Principles Fellowship Programme

PRETORIA (SOUTH AFRICA), 4 November 2024 — The South Africa Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Chandler Academy of Governance (CAG), the training arm of the Chandler Institute of Governance (CIG), launched the inaugural Constitutional Values and Principles (CVP) Fellowship Programme at Tshedimosetso House in Pretoria today.

Designed by CIG in collaboration with the PSC and the South Africa National School of Government (NSG), the 5-day programme will bring together 35 South African Public Servants aged between 18 – 35 years old, who amongst others, work in the area of ethics and integrity, have exemplary conduct, leadership potential and demonstrate a willingness to serve as champions of the CVPs. These public servants were drawn from national and provincial departments across South Africa.

Honourable Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, Minister of Public Service and Administration, delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony.


During the opening ceremony, Guest-of-Honour and Minister of Public Service and Administration, the Honorable Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi emphasised that the future of South Africa’s public service lies in the hands of the participants as young leaders. He rallied the participants to embody the values enshrined in South Africa’s Constitution and become beacons of integrity, transparency and dedication.

Professor Somadoda Fikeni, Chairperson, Public Service Commission agreed and emphasised the responsibilities of the inaugural cohort:

“It’s not a template nor compliance. It is intrinsic values and principles that you must internalise and walk away with. You will form the new cohort of leaders who will display and exemplify these values in how you serve.”

Professor Somadoda Fikeni
Chairperson, Public Service Commission, South Africa


Ms Sin Xin Ping, Deputy Dean of Programmes at CAG expressed gratitude for the partnership and recognised the joint efforts of key stakeholders in ensuring the success of the programme:

“Our goal was to develop a programme that would equip emerging leaders with the values, knowledge, and skills necessary to serve their country with integrity and effectiveness. Today, as we see that vision becoming reality, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the PSC for your steadfast commitment and to the National School of Government whose expertise and deep understanding of the South African context have been invaluable.”

Ms Sin Xin Ping
Deputy Dean (Programmes), Chandler Academy of Governance


Through the programme, participants will be equipped with a solid understanding of the ethos, values and behaviours expected of a public servant. They will also learn strategies and techniques to navigate ethical challenges, promote inclusive governance, and manage public resources responsibly.

Participants engaged in robust group discussions during a class activity

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About Public Service Commission (PSC) of South Africa

The Public Service Commission is a constitutional institution that is established in terms of section 196 of the South African Constitution, 1996 read with the Public Service Commission Act, 1997 (Act No. 46 of 1997).

The PSC is mandated by law to investigate, monitor and evaluate performance of the public service administration. This entails making proposals and disseminating information to achieve efficiency.

To this end, the PSC undertakes research and conducts seminars to disseminate information and ensure a wider understanding of what stakeholders are meant to achieve.

For more news and information, visit https://www.psc.gov.za

About the Chandler Institute of Governance (CIG)

The Chandler Institute of Governance (CIG) is an international non-profit organisation, headquartered in Singapore. We believe in a world where citizens have a deep sense of trust in their governments and public institutions, and where nations are governed by principled, wise leaders supported by an effective civil service. Trust and effective governance serve as a strong foundation for national development and prosperity. CIG supports governments in building government talent, leadership and public service capabilities through training programmes, research initiatives and advisory work. We are not affiliated with any national government or political party, and we do not represent any partisan or commercial interests.

For more news and information, visit https://www.chandlerinstitute.org/ or follow CIG on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn @ChandlerINST
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For media clarifications, please contact:

WONG Huey Khey (Ms)
Senior Manager, Programmes and Government Projects
Chandler Institute of Governance
Email: Hueykhey_Wong@Chandlerinstitute.org