University of the Free State

Bachelor of Administration

Business, Commerce and Management Studies - Office Administration

Purpose and Rationale

To effectively manage public service delivery organizations at the middle level, one must apply educational knowledge, skills, principles, and methods to meet the needs of the community. This involves understanding the public sector's intricacies, trade unions' dynamics, and non-governmental organizations' (NGOs) operations. Additionally, recognizing the importance of lifelong learning and understanding the value of education in society are crucial aspects of this role.

Applying Educational Knowledge:

Education equips middle-level managers in public service organizations with the necessary know-how to deal with complex issues. They can utilize theoretical frameworks, best practices, and research findings to make informed decisions. For example, understanding public policy development and implementation processes is vital in delivering effective services to the community.

Skills and Principles in Management:

Middle-level managers should possess skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills enable them to navigate challenges, resolve conflicts, and ensure efficient service delivery. Principles such as transparency, accountability, and fairness guide their actions in managing resources and addressing community needs.

Engaging with the Community:

In the public sector, managers need to engage with the community to identify their needs and preferences. By fostering partnerships and conducting regular consultations, they can tailor services to meet the community's expectations. This collaborative approach enhances trust and ensures that services are responsive to the community's evolving needs.

Collaboration with Trade Unions and NGOs:

Trade unions play a significant role in representing employees' interests and advocating for fair working conditions. Middle-level managers must collaborate with unions to address labor-related issues and enhance workforce welfare. Similarly, engaging with NGOs allows managers to leverage their expertise and resources to support community development initiatives.

Lifelong Learning and Value of Education:

Recognizing the value of education and continuous learning is essential for middle-level managers. Staying updated on emerging trends, technologies, and management practices equips them to adapt to changing environments. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning within their organizations, managers foster personal growth and ensure relevance in the dynamic public service landscape.

Contributions to Society:

Qualified middle-level managers make rewarding contributions to society by ensuring efficient service delivery, promoting social equity, and upholding ethical standards. By applying their knowledge and skills effectively, they can drive positive change, improve people's lives, and advance the common good.

In conclusion, the application of educational knowledge, skills, principles, and methods is vital for middle-level managers in public service delivery organizations to meet the needs of the community effectively. By engaging with stakeholders, promoting lifelong learning, and upholding the value of education, managers can make significant contributions to society and create lasting impacts on public service delivery.

Outcomes

  1. Understanding how government is structured and how it operates.
  2. Demonstrating knowledge of the public sector environment and applying skills to manage in that environment.
  3. Formulating, analyzing and implementing public policies.
  4. Integrating and applying knowledge and analytical skills from a variety of disciplines (Political Science, computer literacy and Industrial Psychology) within public sector management.
  5. Demonstrating insight in public finances and applies the principles of public financial management.
  6. Demonstrating insight and application skills in public human resource management and organizational theories.
  7. Undertaking research in public affairs and analyzing and applying research findings in public sector management. The learner will be able to analyse and apply the basic principles relevant to the following:
  8. Distinguish between and analyse different government systems and executive public sector structures.
  9. Analyse the public sector environment and develop an awareness and sensitivity for that environment.
  10. Identify community needs and articulate them in workable policy proposals.
  11. Apply management knowledge and skills to give effect to public policies.
  12. Prepare capital and operational budgets and develop strategies to implement them effectively and efficiently.
  13. Manage in an inter-disciplinary context.
  14. Consult relevant literature, undertake empirical research, draw valid conclusions from the findings and apply the gathered knowledge in addressing community needs.
  15. Communicate understandably in writing and verbally.
  16. Work effectively and efficiently in groups.
  17. Successfully apply the gathered knowledge, skills and insight in middle management positions in practice.

Assessment Criteria

To demonstrate competency in identifying solutions for economic, social, political, and technological problems in public service delivery, a learner should engage in various assessment activities such as:

  1. Written tests and examinations: Learners should be tested on their knowledge of different solutions to public service delivery problems in various contexts.

  2. Practical syndicate projects: Working in groups, learners should apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop solutions to specific problems faced in public service delivery at middle management positions.

  3. Case studies: Analyzing and providing solutions to case studies related to economic, social, political, and technological challenges in public service delivery.

  4. Verbal presentations: Presenting solutions to problems in public service delivery to a group or panel, demonstrating effective communication skills and understanding of the subject matter.

  5. Written assignments: Completing assignments that require learners to develop strategies and financial plans for improving the quality of life of citizens through public service delivery.

Assessment documents should be moderated to ensure that they align with the scope and context of the competency outlined in the qualification. Assessments should focus on the critical outcomes and include confirmation of the embedded knowledge component to ensure foundational competency is achieved. Internal verifiers should verify the assessments to ensure that results are valid, credible, true, and fair.

Additionally, a module credit system can be implemented, where learners earn credits for successfully completing assessments related to specific modules. A final exam can be held for modules where credit was not obtained to assess overall understanding and competency in identifying solutions for public service delivery problems.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
440
SAQA Source
More Information

Education Cost Calculator

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.

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.