Public administration and governance in society, as well as civic organisations, are key drivers in government effectively responding to the needs of citizens. The Public Governance Discipline uniquely encompasses the study of government institutions and agencies, their structure, operations and policy operationalisation, and the overall implementation of government programmes, informed by public policies.
The Public Governance Discipline offers students an opportunity to gain insight into the theory and practice of public governance (affairs, administration, policy and development management) in both urban and rural settings. Furthermore, studies in this Discipline focus on present and future public administration and governance issues, related institutions and their intricacies, such as the need for sustainable development, administration and governance, advancements in technology, digitalisation, and other innovations central to public service and service delivery.
Our values as a Discipline are anchored on the principles of Public Service and Administration, also emphasising ubuntu, just administrative action, equality, impartiality, fairness, and accountability. These values also highlight the importance of professionalism, ethics, and the responsible use of resources.
The Public Governance Discipline is staffed by experienced academics and is home to internationally recognised and leading NRF-rated scholars, which assures excellence in research and innovation in teaching and learning. It is also the academic home of a cohort of a professoriate, including UKZN’s College of Law and Management Studies NRF/SARChI Chair in Sustainable Rural Livelihoods.
