Prof Thornhill recently visited Radboud University in Nijmegen, Netherlands, where he had discussions with Prof M de Vries, the Acting President of the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA). He also lectured to students of the University. He then visited Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada for discussions with Prof Anver Saloojee of the Department of Politics and Public Administration to discuss that university’s approach to doctoral studies. He further attended a training session for members of the university’s appointment committees.

Earlier in 2012, Prof Thornhill was invited by the Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe, to participate in their Master in Public Administration programme. He gained valuable information concerning the operations of that university.

Prof Thornhill was also one of the SPMA’s staff members that attended IASIA’s annual conference in Bangkok, Thailand, and delivered a paper on the current situation of municipalities in South Africa.