The 12th Biennial Conference of the Commonwealth Association for Public Administration and Management (CAPAM) will be held from October 22-24 under the theme “Transforming the Public Sector for Climate Governance.”
The conference which will have in excess of 350 participants, is expected to create the opportunity for experts and practitioners to set out arguments for a prosperous future inclusive of the public service being responsible custodians for the environment, according to a Department of Public Information (DPI) press release.
A number of activities are planned for the conference and the local organising committee is receiving guidance from CAPAM’s executive body, headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. Four sub-committees were also established to assist with the planning.
Participants will be privy to background information relating to the economic and environmental challenges which confronts their countries while highlighting risks which the public service should be aware of in order to achieve positive results and be accountable.
Given the high priority of climate change in most countries and the mounting pressures on the public service as a result of budgets, higher citizens’ expectations, digital adoption and a wide range of environmental concerns, public service workers must be well-equipped to address these issues, the DPI release added. CAPAM believes that through research, policy development, service delivery to citizens, and regulation and enforcement, the public service can better meet these growing demands.
“…more and more, it becomes evident that strategic partnerships, consultation across political and bureaucratic boundaries and leading practices will advance innovative solutions and support the public service in determining and advising governments on ways to promote economic prosperity while protecting the natural productivity of our world.” a concept paper on the conference stated.
According to the DPI release, it is essential that the public service produces not only economic and social analysis as a background to action, but scientific and environmental considerations that consider the immediate wellbeing of citizens, as well as the interests of future generations.
The conference is designed for an international audience of senior public sector managers and administrators and intends to offer insightful dialogue, theoretical and practical knowledge exchange and networking opportunities.
