The Value of a Degree in Governance and Political Transformation
Dr Tania Coetzee
As citizens of South Africa we are aware of the difficulties and the challenges at local government level and the problems experienced particularly by municipalities. Lack of accountability, responsibility and transparency (just to name a few), all part of good governance principles, are seen at municipality level. Municipalities are under constant pressure to deliver services to communities to improve the lives of citizens. The ward committees and ward councillors find it difficult to cope with the demands and needs of the communities. The political behaviour of citizens who are not satisfied with the basic services provided are making their concerns known through violent protest marches.
The BA Programme in Governance and Political Transformation has a specific niche and focus, namely governance, political transformation and political management. Three main subjects (majors) within the degree, namely Political Science, Public Administration and Management and Communications Science all contribute to provide the necessary scientific knowledge, analytical skills, strategic management and general background which make it possible for students to be better prepared to work in a public and private sector.
Service Learning Module: The Practical Experience
Some of the Service Learning students during a picnic to the end of the semester
The service learning module within the BA curriculum provides a golden opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience on a very practical level regarding governance issues within communities. Students contributed to improved communication between the communities and ward councillors. They also obtained a better understanding of the theoretical framework of Political Science and Public Administration and Management and could clearly use and link the theory of the different subjects to understand the practical issues and problems experienced by communities and councils in a better manner. They were able to identify the basic principles of good governance and could advise the community and councillors to implement good practices and improved service delivery.
Different community’s needs, problems and disputes were identified and discussed during workshops and meetings organised by the students themselves. These matters were brought to the attention of the services sector (public servants in local government spheres). In the process the accountability of public servants, particularly ward councillors, was ensured. The community obtained a better understanding of the theoretical framework of political management and the difficulties with implementing decisions and policies. Community members voiced their opinions and shared their dreams, concerns and needs in an open and transparent manner.
Students also had the opportunity to present their research findings, experience and very important their understanding of governance and political transformation during a formal presentation to colleagues, students and the ward councillors of the different wards.
Comments from students during reflection:
“... we gained a lot of experience ... we experienced the people’s challenges and needs first hand and not from a distance. This module gave us the opportunity to be free and open minded ... allowed us to grow as individuals and students.”
“... would like to extend a hand of appreciation to the programme planners as the module has proved itself to be invaluable in terms of general growth unlike with other programmes that put ultimate emphasis on nothing else but academic growth.”