Public Institutional Practices

This book presents a collection of 22 case studies written by South African public servants that examines how government institutions have evolved and adapted over the 30 years since democracy began in 1994. Rather than focusing on theory, the book presents real-world experiences of policy development, service delivery, and state-building across areas such as local government, education, climate change, water management, public transport, healthcare, social grants, policing, gender-based violence, traditional leadership, identity management, arts and culture, and sports. Through these practical accounts, the book highlights the successes, challenges, innovations, and lessons involved in creating a capable, ethical, and developmental state, while reflecting on how South Africa’s public sector has worked to address inequality, improve governance, and strengthen democracy.

Abstract based on original source.