by Phaphama Tshisikhawe
A group of third-year public affairs students from the Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Humanities embarked on an enriching academic excursion that transformed theoretical learning into a vivid, real-world experience. The meticulously planned itinerary aimed at enabling students to engage directly with influential leaders and key institutions shaping South Africa’s public policy and service delivery.
City of Tshwane: Ethical leadership and community focus
The day kicked off with an insightful visit to the City of Tshwane, where Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya warmly welcomed and addressed the students on ethical leadership and the critical role of the youth in shaping the future of public service.
“The city is intentional about investing in the future. Leadership is not just about occupying office; it is about service, innovation and staying rooted in the needs of the people,” Dr Moya said.
Joining the Mayor, the MMC for Human Settlements, Aaron Maluleka, provided a detailed overview of the city’s housing and community development initiatives, advocating for sustainable, inclusive urban growth. Councillor DK Tsela also shared practical insights into council operations, underscoring the importance of participatory governance. For many students, this direct engagement with municipal leaders was a crucial moment, bringing the intricacies of public policy and service delivery to life.
Union Buildings: Reflecting on national governance
The next stop was the iconic Union Buildings, a historic Pretoria landmark steeped in symbolism. Here, students engaged in discussions with Minister Maropene Ramokgopa and Deputy Minister Seiso Mohai from the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation.
Minister Ramokgopa’s address highlighted the importance of collaborative and disciplined planning in governance, emphasising the need for clear outcomes towards building a capable, development-oriented state. Deputy Minister Mohai underlined the critical role of data-driven decision-making, encouraging students to pursue careers that bridge public intention with tangible impact, through evidence-based policymaking.
A guided tour of the Union Buildings’ historic grounds prompted students to reflect on South Africa’s democratic journey and the sacrifices underpinning its institutions. This experience deepened their appreciation for the complexities of national governance.
National School of Government: Inspiring future leaders
The final stop was the National School of Government (NSG), a vital institution dedicated to enhancing the skills of public servants across all government levels. Dr Lakela Kaunda, Lusanda Mxenge and Prof Busani Ngcaweni, who received the students, each shared profound insights into public service leadership.
Focusing on resilience, integrity and character in the public sector, Dr Kaunda said: “Public service is a calling. It demands competence, but more importantly, a commitment to ethical conduct. We need leaders who are grounded, who listen and who act with integrity.”
Prof Ngcaweni, the NSG Principal, encouraged students to see themselves as agents of change and pursue intellectual excellence as well as contribute to a modern, responsive and ethical state. He also reinforced the importance of skill-building and dedication in public administration.
Lasting impact and reflection
The students all agreed that the excursion left an indelible mark on them and assisted to bridge the gap between classroom concepts and practical governance, while deepening their understanding of leadership, public service and civic responsibility.
“This experience opened my eyes to the way in which government systems interlink and underscored the importance of strong leadership in driving progress. My studies now feel like a step in the right direction to meaningful work, not just theory,” said Amo Seboka, House Committee Chair.
Prof John Molepo from the Department of Public Management commended the role that the excursion played in reinforcing the value of experiential learning in higher education. By immersing students in environments where policies are crafted and implemented, the excursion provided a nuanced understanding of governance in action.
A cornerstone of the interfacing with Praxis Project
A key component of Prof Mashupye Maserumule, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities’ Interfacing with Praxis Project, this informative trip assisted in integrating practical experiences and guest lectures from industry leaders into the curriculum. By blending academic rigor with real-world exposure, the project equips students to become thoughtful, ethical and impactful public servants.
“This academic excursion opened the students' eyes to the challenges and opportunities of public service, while also inspiring them to envision themselves as future leaders in South Africa’s evolving governance landscape,” Prof Maserumule concluded.
Exploring the heart of SA governance. Public Affairs students from the Faculty of Humanities dive into a day of learning and discovery at the Union Buildings, Office of the Executive Mayor: City of Tshwane and the National School of Governance.