Compulsory training to strengthen public service

Key Points

• Compulsory training for public servants across all three spheres of government is now law, potentially improving procurement capacity and reducing irregular expenditure.
• The National School of Government (NSG) will design and deliver mandatory training, which may include procurement-related modules, affecting how bids are evaluated and managed.
• This reform could lead to more consistent application of procurement regulations, reducing risks for bidders but also increasing compliance requirements.
• Bidders should anticipate that public servants will be better trained, leading to more rigorous tender processes and potentially fewer disputes.
• The training mandate may delay appointments or procurement processes as officials undergo compulsory training, creating short-term disruptions.