Public Service

The public service is the backbone of South Africa’s governance, employing more than 1.2 million people across national, provincial, and local levels. Represented by the Public Service SETA (PSETA), it is central to delivering services, enforcing policies, and sustaining the nation’s developmental agenda.

Historically, the public service was a tool of control under apartheid, designed to enforce segregation and privilege. Post-1994, the democratic government reimagined it as an engine of equity and development, expanding access to housing, healthcare, education, and social protection. The sector has often been undermined by inefficiency, corruption, and skills mismatches.

Today, South Africa’s public service faces both criticism and opportunity, service delivery protests highlight persistent failures. On the other, millions of South Africans depend on grants, healthcare, and education provided through this very system. The state remains the largest employer, with skills needs in policy, administration, digital governance, and public finance.

By 2030, the public service must become professional, ethical, and digitally enabled. E-governance, data-driven decision-making, and improved accountability will be essential. The National Development Plan envisions a “capable state” that empowers rather than hinders development. This will require a new generation of skilled, service-oriented public servants.

The next five years will determine whether the state rebuilds trust or risks further alienation from its citizens.