The Eastern Cape human settlements department, in partnership with Nelson Mandela University, has launched a short learning programme aimed at equipping public servants with specialised knowledge in the human settlements sector.
The programme, the first of its kind in the province, is specially designed for municipal office workers, councillors, politicians and traditional leaders who are directly involved in housing and service delivery.
It forms part of a broader initiative to increase the quality of service delivery and ensure better housing development projects.
Workshops will be opened in several districts, including Sarah Baartman, Alfred Nzo, Chris Hani, the Buffalo City Metro and Nelson Mandela Bay.
Speaking at the launch, human settlements MEC Siphokazi Lusithi highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public sector and institutions of higher learning.
“This programme will not only improve service delivery but also strengthen decision-making by those tasked with managing housing and development projects,” Lusithi said.
“It will give us access to cutting-edge research and resources.
“It will also ensure we receive training that will align the work we do with the needs of our people.
“It will help identify the gaps in the work we do, resulting in our public servants meeting targets and doing a better job to serve our people.”
Though the programme has space for 60 participants, fewer than 30 spaces have been filled to date.
Deon De Vos, from the SA Local Government Association (Salga), said it was concerning that the representatives who needed the training were not jumping at the opportunity.
“I think this programme is a great idea because it has the potential to assist councillors and political leaders to understand how housing projects should be approached and delivered,” he said.
“It was also mentioned that bursaries are available to help more participants enrol in the course.
“We need to take any opportunity that will allow us to improve our service delivery methods.
“We have a responsibility to go back to our departments and fill these remaining spots.”
The intake for the second term is being finalised, with the programme officially beginning in September.
It is fully accredited and designed to equip participants with knowledge on the theories and practices of informal settlements upgrading, housing delivery processes and the management of public participation in housing programmes and development.
NMU vice-chancellor Prof Sibongile Muthwa expressed the university’s pride in its involvement in a project which supported learning and societal development.
“This is a great learning and teaching response to help solve a public sector problem,” she said.
“It is a challenge for public servants to sharpen and deepen their understanding of what people need and the best ways they can serve.
“This will empower our leaders with the right tools to make informed, impactful decisions.”
The Herald
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