Dr Harlan Cloete, Research Fellow from the University of the Free State Centre for Gender and Africa Studies recently delivered a thought-provoking address at the FW de Klerk Foundation conference, setting the tone with an evocative phrase: The weight of the past, the pull of the future, the push of the present. His remarks navigated the complexities of South Africa’s socio-political landscape, urging for governance that is not only effective, but also transformative.
Acknowledging the historic weight carried by the nation, Dr Cloete emphasised the persistent inequality entrenched by a past marred by economic and social injustices. Quoting the late Prof Sampie Terreblanche, he laid bare the stark realities of a country still grappling with disparities in wealth, education, and opportunity. The past, he argued, cannot be ignored – it must be confronted with an honest reckoning and decisive policy shifts.
Yet, beyond the weight of history, Dr Cloete spoke of the future’s undeniable pull. He called for a South Africa that is ethical, inclusive, and forward-thinking, urging local government to serve as the backbone of progress. “We need leadership at all levels of society,” he asserted, emphasising the importance of active citizenship and collaboration between academia, government, and the business sector. With examples from global best practices, he highlighted innovative governance models that could inspire a more effective approach to service delivery.
The urgency of the present, however, was not lost in the discussion. Dr Cloete underscored the necessity for immediate and pragmatic governance reforms. He proposed the Governance 5iQ model, a framework designed to enhance accountability, efficiency, and sustainable service delivery at the local government level. “The state fails if local government fails,” he warned, stressing the need for robust municipal leadership that prioritises action over rhetoric.
His closing remarks were a clarion call for courage, conviction, and collaboration. He challenged South Africans to move beyond discourse and into implementation, quoting Maya Angelou: “Once you know better, you must do better.” The time for mere reflection is over – now is the moment to act, innovate, and build a South Africa that is not only great in sport, but exemplary in governance and equality.
At the University of the Free State, this vision of engaged scholarship continues to drive meaningful partnerships with local government, ensuring that knowledge is not just produced, but applied for the benefit of society. Dr Cloete’s message was clear: South Africa’s future is not preordained – it must be intentionally created.
Click here to watch Dr Cloete's presentation.