The New South Institute and the University of the Western Cape’s School of Government will host a public lecture, South Africa’s Third Transition, on Monday, 7 September 2026.

The lecture will examine the significance of the Public Service Amendment Act, 2025, one of the most consequential reforms to South Africa’s public administration since the democratic transition. The Act seeks to reshape the relationship between politics and administration, strengthen merit-based appointments and establish the foundations for a more capable and professional public service.

The discussion will trace the origins of the Act and the reform process that led to its adoption, before considering what its implementation may mean for democratic governance, institutional reform and South Africa’s emerging “third transition”.

It will also consider the capabilities that these reforms will require from civil servants and public administrators, and the implications for public-sector training, education and research. As South Africa enters a new phase of public-service reform, the lecture will provide an opportunity to examine how changes to the institutional framework of the state could affect its capacity, professionalism and relationship with political leadership.

Speakers

Ivor Chipkin
Executive Director, New South Institute

Dr Msuthu Makiva
Senior Lecturer, School of Government, University of the Western Cape

Event details

Date: Monday, 7 September 2026
Time: 13:00
Venue: Room 1G, School of Government Building (Ground Floor), University of the Western Cape, Bellville

Attendance is free, but registration is essential.