Public administration serves as the backbone of any governmental agency.
Not only does it ensure efficient management of resources, but it also provides effective service to country citizens. At the centre of it all are public administration workers.
REGENT offers a Bachelor of Public Administration that equips students with the skills to manage organisations within the public sector.
This article will discuss public administration, including what it is, the skills you require, and the qualifications you can pursue to get a job in public administration. We will also provide a list of possible job opportunities so you can decide if this is the right career path for you.
What is public administration?
Public administration is the implementation of government policies and programmes. This includes managing and delivering public resources and services to citizens.
There are four main fields of public administration:
- Local
- State
- National
- International and non-profit
Public administrators are responsible for various activities to manage public sector organisations, such as planning, coordinating, and directing projects.
The main goal of these professionals is to effectively carry out the functions of a government, including health services, law enforcement, social services, education, and more.
For public administration to be successful, it requires accountability, transparency, and quick responses to the needs of residents.
The South African public sector struggles to provide quality services because it is overwhelmed. This dramatically increases the need for public workers, opening the door to many career opportunities for those studying public administration.
Skills needed for a career in public administration
Here are some of the top skills employers in public administration seek in their employees.
1. Problem-solving
When working in public administration, you often deal with complex social issues requiring unique solutions. You will carry significant responsibilities from working with local schools and helping hospitals provide better care.
This means you must have excellent problem-solving skills to help identify issues, analyse situations, and find possible solutions.
2. Cross-cultural awareness
As a public sector worker, you will serve many citizens from diverse backgrounds and cultures. As such, you need to be open to understanding these cultures and how to communicate effectively with different people.
You can gain these skills and knowledge of your community by volunteering and participating in community outreaches and events.
3. Adaptability
Environments are constantly changing. This means you’ll need to be quick on your feet and can adapt quickly. The more you are exposed to these challenges, the more you will develop this skill and become a valuable asset to employers.
4. Diplomacy
Diplomacy is the ability to deal with people without offending them. This skill is instrumental in the public sector since you may often find yourself in situations where you need to work with people. You may need to:
- Negotiate with stakeholders
- Advocate for different government policies
- Influence external opinions
Learning to present your standpoint and ideas in a non-combative manner will help you persuade more people.
5. Empathy and emotional intelligence
You will likely be required to work with many stakeholders, coworkers, and the public throughout your career.
It’s essential to have emotional and social skills to build working relationships with your team members and remain calm when engaged with the public.
Empathy allows you to see all sides of a story to better understand people’s motivations and what you need to do to serve them.
Top careers in public administration in South Africa
In South Africa, there is a wide range of jobs in public administration across various sectors of the economy. Some of the top careers include the following:
Public Administration Officer
These professionals are responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of government agencies. This includes overseeing all administration functions, such as budgeting, facility management, and purchases.
Policy Analyst
These analysts need to research, analyse, and develop new government policies based on issues South Africa is facing and the needs of its citizens. They may work at government, non-profit, or international organisations to review policies and present better alternatives.
Programme Manager
This types of manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating government initiatives, such as the Expanded Public Works Programme. They need to coordinate these programmes and allocate resources to meets citizens’ needs.
Public Finance Manager
These professionals need to manage government companies’ financial resources. They are responsible for developing budgets, monitoring spending, and ensuring the agency complies with financial regulations.
Public Health Administrator
A Public Health Administrator plays a vital role in managing public healthcare systems and services on a regional and national level. Some of their responsibilities may include developing and coordinating health initiatives, monitoring illness breakouts, and promoting healthier living.
Environmental Management Specialist
These professionals protect and conserve South Africa’s natural resources. They implement policies and initiatives related to conservation and sustainable development.
Qualifications for a public administration career
To enter the public administration sector, you must study towards a qualification that equips you with the necessary management skills. Below are two of the best qualifications you can consider if you are just starting.
- Bachelor of Public Administration: This degree is designed to provide you with fundamental and advanced skills in management and administration within the public sector. It focusses on public policy, political science, and public management. You can look at REGENT’s Bachelor of Public Administration degree here.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): A BBA degree will equip you with the management and operational practices necessary to effectively run a company. This degree can work for professionals looking to work in the public and private sectors. Learn how a BBA degree can help you succeed in public administration.
Study public administration with REGENT
Due to the state of the public sector in South Africa, there is a big opportunity for you to attain high-level positions within the public industry.
Not only will you be able to help South Africa become more efficient in its public services, but you will also reap the benefits of a highly lucrative career.
Look at REGENT’s Bachelor of Public Administration here to learn more about the course.