The National School of Government (NSG) successfully hosted the launch of the China-Africa Joint Research Centre on 22 July 2026 at its premises in the City of Tshwane.
This new initiative aims to bring together researchers, policymakers, practitioners and development partners to advance responsive public policy, strengthen state capability and improve governance outcomes across Africa.
Ms Phindi Mkwanazi, Acting Principal of the NSG, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the importance of partnerships that promote knowledge exchange, sustainable development and practical solutions to Africa’s development challenges.
The NSG, which integrates lessons from the past to develop skills and empower public servants, continues to expand its strategic international collaborations to enhance public service training and capacity building.
Minister of Public Service and Administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, addressed delegates and emphasised the people-centred nature of public service. “Nothing should matter more than the extent to which our work changes the lives of our people,” the Minister stated.
He highlighted that the China–Africa Joint Research Centre will help shape responsive public policy and strengthen governance in line with national and continental development priorities.
Prof TK Pooe from the University of the Witwatersrand contributed insights on effective partnerships with China.
He argued that successful collaboration should be built on clear objectives, mutual learning and strategic adaptation suited to Africa’s own realities, priorities and aspirations, rather than imitation.
Prof. Tian Feng, Vice President of the China-Africa Institute, described the centre as a practical example of partnership. Its true success, he noted, will be measured by the positive impact it delivers on people’s lives.
The launch aligns with ongoing efforts by the Government of South Africa to deepen cooperation with international partners in areas that support professionalisation of the state, modernisation and improved service delivery.
The NSG has a track record of working with partners such as the China-Africa Institute on programmes covering economic governance, poverty reduction, sustainable development and local governance.
This centre is expected to facilitate joint research, policy dialogues and capacity-building activities that contribute to a capable, ethical and developmental state. It supports South Africa’s broader objectives of building a capable public service that drives equitable socio-economic transformation while safeguarding the rights and dignity of citizens.
By fostering evidence-based approaches and cross-continental learning, the China-Africa Joint Research Centre is positioned to contribute meaningfully to governance improvement and development outcomes.
The NSG will continue to play a central role in coordinating such initiatives as part of its mandate to professionalise public administration in South Africa and support wider African public service enhancement.
The event underscores the value of strategic partnerships in addressing shared challenges and advancing mutual development goals through research and knowledge sharing.
