Recap of the 18th Public Sector Innovation Conference 2024

Written by Hlengiwe Penelope Mtetwa

The 18th Centre for Public Service Innovation Conference, held at the Coastlands uMhlanga Hotel in eThekwini on August 21-22, 2024, focused on “Accelerating Transformation through Mission-Oriented Innovation.” This event brought together leaders and innovators to discuss how mission-oriented innovation can drive systemic change within the public sector, particularly in enhancing service delivery.

Day 1: Laying the Groundwork for Mission-Oriented Innovation

The conference opened with Mr. Sbu Ngubane welcoming delegates, followed by Mr. Tando Luyaba , CIO of the Information Regulator, who highlighted the importance of innovation in the public sector through the example of the Bizportal initiative. Ms. LYDIA SEBOKEDI , Acting Executive Director of CPSI, emphasized the urgency of adopting innovative approaches to address South Africa’s pressing challenges and the need for stronger inter-governmental relations to break down silos hindering service delivery.

Key insights were provided by Ms. Nora Clinton from the Mission-oriented Innovation Network (MOIN) and Dr. Piret T?nurist from the OECD Mission Action Lab, offering global perspectives on innovation. Prof. Geci Karuri-Sebina from Wits School of Governance added a local viewpoint, stressing the need for public sector leaders to remove barriers to change.

Mr. Rudi Dicks , Head of the Project Management Office at The Presidency, presented Operation Vulindlela as a prime example of mission-oriented innovation driving economic growth and service delivery. A roundtable discussion, moderated by Mr. Pierre Shoonraad, included speakers like Prof. Geci Karuri-Sebina and Ms. Ntombi Radebe-Tsotetsi, who shared strategies for fostering collaboration across sectors to achieve mission-oriented goals. The day concluded with Hlengiwe Mtetwa showcasing how effective contract management can break down departmental silos and enhance service delivery.

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Day 2: Showcasing Innovation in Action

Day two began with an inspiring keynote by Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, MP, Minister for Public Service and Administration, emphasizing the role of mission-oriented innovation in addressing service delivery backlogs and ensuring consistency across locations.

Panel discussions on “Smart Agriculture” by Dr. Maanda Dagada, PhD and “Citizen-Centric Digital Transformation” by Ms. Aneesa Basha highlighted how innovation is transforming agricultural practices and digital engagement with citizens. A roundtable on harnessing innovation for service delivery included experts like Prof. Halima Khunoethe and Dr. Maanda Dagada, who shared actionable insights for public sector leaders.

The afternoon was dedicated to showcasing award-winning public sector projects, including the “eThekwini StratHub” and the “Digitised Patient Journey.” These presentations underscored the importance of innovation in improving health outcomes and securing public sector IT infrastructure. A Developer’s Convention also took place, bringing together system developers from the public sector to share best practices.

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A Call to Action for Innovation

The 18th Public Sector Innovation Conference 2024 underscored the need for collaboration, integration, and a mission-oriented approach in overcoming the public sector’s challenges. The insights and connections made during this event will be pivotal in shaping a more efficient and equitable public service as South Africa moves towards 2030 and beyond. The conference highlighted the transformative power of innovation in public sector operations and set the stage for continued efforts to accelerate transformation.

Legal Interact is ready to partner with you to drive this innovation forward—empowering your team with cutting-edge AI solutions that simplify contract management and enhance service delivery.

Find out more: https://legalinteract.com/