South Africa needs an efficient, capable and value-based public administration. Building the capacity of public servants to deliver is one of the key tools for the successful implementation of government’s strategic priorities and programme of action. PALAMA, as the government training department, provides capacity building interventions that are aimed at developing a public service cadre who cares, belongs, serves and delivers in a manner that is developmental.

PALAMA, as the capacity building vehicle of government, manages and offers training and development opportunities to public servants at national, provincial and local spheres of government. PALAMA has also expanded its reach to support legislatures and parliament with the design and delivery of training in governance, leadership and management.

Programmes and courses offered by PALAMA address leadership challenges and the practical management competencies required for improved service delivery.  They also focus on inculcating the values and contextual knowledge required for a developmental state. Specific courses are available to enhance competencies in human resources, monitoring and evaluation, supply chain and finance management functions across all departments and local authorities.

Some of the courses offered by PALAMA are accredited by the Public Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) or by other Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Other courses can be combined into programmes which are equivalent to certificates or degrees. Training offered can also become stepping stones for career advancement in the public service.

Through PALAMA, the government is in a position to meet the challenge of rapidly creating a professional, competent public sector with the will and the skills to manage service delivery effectively.