Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme 2026: Fully Funded Leadership Opportunity for South African Women @Unknown

Senior women professionals in South Africa’s public sector have an exciting opportunity to enhance their leadership skills through the Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme.

This prestigious executive development programme is delivered by Duke Corporate Education in collaboration with the Auditor-General South Africa and the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority.

The programme aims to recruit 500 dynamic women leaders from across the South African public sector and equip them with the skills, networks, and insights needed to drive systemic change in government institutions.

Importantly, the initiative is fully funded, making it accessible to high-potential leaders committed to improving governance, accountability, and service delivery.

About the Programme

The Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme is a 12-month leadership development initiative designed specifically for women in senior positions within the public sector.

Participants will join a national cohort of experienced leaders who are committed to strengthening ethical governance, improving public service systems, and promoting inclusive leadership across South Africa’s government institutions.

The programme combines strategic learning, mentorship, and collaborative experiences that help participants build the capabilities required to lead in complex and rapidly evolving public sector environments.

Programme Structure

The programme follows a hybrid learning format, combining virtual sessions and in-person engagements.

Participants will commit approximately:

• Two days per month for structured learning modules
• Three hours monthly for leadership masterclasses
• Two hours monthly for group coaching sessions

All learning activities take place during work hours, and participants are expected to coordinate with their employers to secure leave where necessary.

What Participants Will Gain

Selected fellows will participate in a comprehensive leadership development experience designed to enhance strategic thinking and public sector impact.

Executive Leadership Development

The programme curriculum, designed by Duke Corporate Education, focuses on key leadership capabilities such as:

• Strategic decision-making
• Ethical governance
• Stakeholder engagement
• Crisis leadership
• Leading through complexity

These competencies are essential for navigating the unique challenges faced by leaders in the public sector.

Coaching and Peer Learning

Participants will engage in both individual and group coaching circles, which provide opportunities for reflection, feedback, and professional growth. These sessions help leaders strengthen their self-awareness and refine their leadership styles.

National Network of Women Leaders

One of the programme’s most valuable components is the opportunity to connect with a national network of senior women leaders working across different government departments.

This network fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and long-term professional relationships that extend beyond the programme itself.

Immersive Leadership Experiences

Participants will also take part in immersive learning opportunities, including a Public Sector Leadership Exchange, where leaders explore best practices and innovative approaches to governance and public administration.

Alumni Community

Upon completion of the programme, graduates will join an exclusive alumni network dedicated to advancing ethical leadership and gender equity within the public sector.

This community offers ongoing support, collaboration opportunities, and continued leadership engagement.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants interested in the Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen by birth
• Must be a female applicant
• Must hold a minimum qualification of NQF Level 7
• Must have at least five years of experience in a senior or executive management role
• Must be currently employed in the South African public sector

Additional requirements include:

• The applicant’s employer or profession must be affiliated with Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority
• If the employer is not affiliated, the applicant must work within a finance, audit, or compliance unit
• Applicants must not have previously participated in a FASSET-funded Women Leadership Programme

The programme is also inclusive of persons with disabilities, and reasonable accommodations will be provided where needed.

Why This Programme Matters

Strengthening leadership within the public sector is essential for improving governance, accountability, and service delivery. Initiatives like the Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme help address gender gaps in leadership while equipping women with the skills needed to drive institutional transformation.

By investing in women leaders, the programme supports the development of a more ethical, transparent, and effective public sector in South Africa.

Final Thoughts

The Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme represents a powerful opportunity for experienced women leaders to expand their leadership capabilities, build influential networks, and contribute to shaping the future of governance in South Africa.

Through its comprehensive training, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, the programme empowers participants to lead with confidence and create meaningful impact across the public sector.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this programme. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.