Student Chapter opens professional growth opportunities in Public Management

Professional development, networking and career readiness were in the spotlight during a Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) student seminar organised by the Department of Public Management.

The event supported the establishment and growth of the SAAPAM Student Chapter and connected students with academics, public-sector professionals and government representatives, while providing valuable insights into professional development, networking opportunities, and careers in the public sector.

Participants explored how professional associations contribute to career growth, lifelong learning and ethical public service. Discussions highlighted the importance of connecting academic learning with professional practice and preparing students for successful careers in public administration and management.

Prof Zama Mthombeni, Gauteng SAAPAM Convener, delivered a presentation titled Unlocking Professional Growth in the Public Sector through SAAPAM. She highlighted the important role professional associations play in supporting students and young professionals as they move from university into the workplace.

Prof Mthombeni outlined opportunities available through SAAPAM, including professional networking, mentorship, knowledge sharing and continuous professional development. She encouraged students to use these opportunities to build their professional identities, expand their networks and remain informed about developments in the field of public administration and management.

Ayanda Faya, Assistant Director: Cadet and Youth Development at the National School of Government, corroborated government's commitment to building a competent, ethical and professional public service.

She emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for students to engage directly with practitioners and industry experts. According to Faya, these engagements help graduates develop a clearer understanding of workplace expectations, challenges and opportunities in the public sector.

Prof John N Molepo, Executive Director of SAAPAM, highlighted the value of strengthening relationships between students and professional bodies. According to him, partnerships between universities and professional associations give students valuable exposure to industry practitioners, broaden their professional networks and deepen their understanding of the profession beyond the classroom.

Prof Molepo also commended the Department of Public Management's commitment to developing partnerships that enhance student development, graduate employability and professional readiness.

The seminar was an important step in strengthening relationships among students, academia, and the public sector. The SAAPAM Student Chapter will provide students with opportunities to participate in professional activities, engage with experienced practitioners, access mentorship and professional guidance and build networks that support future career growth.

The event demonstrated how collaboration among TUT, SAAPAM, government institutions and public-sector practitioners can help prepare the next generation of public managers. By bringing academic knowledge and professional practice closer together, these initiatives support the development of graduates who are academically qualified and professionally equipped to contribute meaningfully to South Africa's public service.

The Department of Public Management thanked SAAPAM, Prof Zama Mthombeni, Ayanda Faya, Prof John N Molepo, colleagues and students whose contributions helped make the seminar a success.

The Department looks forward to supporting the growth of the SAAPAM Student Chapter, creating more opportunities that promote professional development, ethical leadership, lifelong learning and excellence among public management students. The initiative reinforces TUT's commitment to preparing graduates who are ready to serve, lead and make a positive impact in the public sector.

• Dr Mogotsi C Maleka is a Senior Lecturer and the Head of Department of Public Management, Faculty of Humanities at TUT.