University of the Free State

Bachelor of Administration Honours

Business, Commerce and Management Studies - Public Administration

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Purpose and Rationale

Applying Educational Knowledge, Skills, and Principles in Management Functions

As a middle manager in the South African public sector, non-governmental organizations, or parastatal environments, as well as a junior academic in higher education institutions, it is essential to apply educational knowledge, skills, and principles to effectively carry out management functions. This involves:

  • Strategic Planning: Utilizing educational knowledge to develop strategic plans that align with the organization's goals and objectives, ensuring the efficient use of resources and improved performance.

  • Human Resource Management: Applying principles of education to recruit, train, and motivate employees, fostering their professional development and ensuring a productive work environment.

  • Financial Management: Using educational skills to effectively manage budgets, allocate resources, and track financial performance to achieve organizational objectives.

Meeting Community, Business, and Industry Needs

As a middle manager or junior academic, it is crucial to respond to the needs of the community, business, and industry by:

  • Engaging Stakeholders: Collaborating with community members, businesses, and industry partners to understand their needs, build relationships, and develop programs that address their concerns.

  • Research and Analysis: Conducting research to identify community, business, and industry trends, analyzing data to inform decision-making and develop strategies that meet their evolving needs.

  • Program Development: Designing educational programs that address skill gaps in the community, align with industry requirements, and contribute to economic development.

Emphasizing Lifelong Learning and Societal Value

As a professional in the field, valuing lifelong learning and the role of education in society is essential. This involves:

  • Continued Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing learning opportunities, obtaining further qualifications, and staying updated on industry trends to enhance personal growth and contribute meaningfully to the organization.

  • Promoting Education: Recognizing the value of education in societal development, promoting learning opportunities within the organization, and advocating for educational initiatives that benefit the community.

  • Ethical Conduct: Upholding professional ethics, integrity, and social responsibility in all interactions, demonstrating a commitment to ethical behavior and contributing positively to society.

By applying educational knowledge, skills, and principles in management functions, addressing community and industry needs, and emphasizing lifelong learning and societal value, middle managers and academics can make significant contributions to their organizations and society as a whole.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrating advanced knowledge, analysis and application of: The formulation, analysis and implementation of public policies Public management Public financial management Public human resource management Control and public accountability Organisational analysis and inter-governmental relations
  2. Integrating and applying specialised knowledge and analytical skills from a variety of disciplines within public sector management.
  3. Undertaking, under supervision, more complex research in public affairs and analyzing and applying research findings in public management. The learner will be able to analyse and apply the basic principles relevant to the following:
  4. Identify community needs and articulate them in workable policy proposals.
  5. Apply public management knowledge and skills to give effect to public policies.
  6. Participate in the preparation of capital and operational budgets and the development of strategies to implement them effectively and efficiently.
  7. Consult relevant literature, undertake empirical research, draw valid conclusions from the findings and apply the gathered knowledge in addressing the needs of the community.
  8. Critically analyse public sector related problems.
  9. Communicate understandably in writing and verbally.
  10. Work effectively and efficiently in groups.
  11. Apply their advanced academic insight in practice.

Assessment Criteria

Evidence of Learning Competency

To demonstrate learning competency, the learner must engage in the following activities:

  1. Identifying Solutions for Problems in Public Service Delivery:

    • Provide examples of identifying economic, social, political, and technological problems in public service delivery.
    • Propose solutions to address these problems effectively.

  2. Developing Strategies and Financial Plans for Citizen’s Quality of Life Improvement:

    • Create financial plans aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens.
    • Develop strategies to ensure the successful implementation of these plans.

  3. Formulating and Implementing Government Policies:

    • Demonstrate the ability to formulate government policies that address key societal issues.
    • Implement these policies effectively, considering various stakeholders and potential challenges.

Integrated Assessment

Competence will be assessed through the following methods:

  • Written examinations to test theoretical knowledge.
  • Written assignments to evaluate practical application of concepts.
  • Practical syndicate research projects focusing on solving real-world problems in public service delivery.
  • Case studies to analyze complex situations and propose solutions.
  • Verbal presentations to communicate findings and strategies effectively.

Assessment Criteria

  • Module Credit System: Learners will earn credits for each module completed successfully.
  • Final Exam: A comprehensive exam will be conducted for modules where credit was not obtained.

Moderation Process

Assessment documents will be moderated to ensure:

  • Alignment with the qualification's scope and context.
  • Evaluation of critical outcomes relevant to the competency.
  • Verification of Embedded Knowledge component to assess foundational competency.
  • Validation by Internal Verifiers to ensure the credibility and fairness of results.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of the Free State
University of the Free State
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) is a public research university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1904 and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, natural and agricultural sciences, law, health sciences, education, and economic and management sciences. UFS is known for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and it strives to provide quality education and promote social justice. The university has a strong research focus and collaborates with national and international partners to address societal challenges and contribute to knowledge creation. UFS also has a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, sports facilities, and cultural activities.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.