The certificate ceremony took place at the University’s Hatfield Campus today (Tuesday, 5 May 2009). The duration of the training programme was 16 days, consisting of two contact days per module. Over the 16-day period various modules were covered, from Budgeting and Development and Human Resources to Adminstrative Functions.

The Executive Leadership Municipal Development Programme was coordinated through Continuing Education at University of Pretoria Trust (CE at UP Trust), an established and well-known supplier of continuing education programmes across a diverse spectrum of study fields.

"Continuing Education at University of Pretoria aims to be the partner of choice to the public and private sector to enhance and empower knowledge into all industries and government. CE at UP focuses on tailor-made training programmes where we apply a combination of disciplines in practical applications. The needs of clients’ employees and the knowledge gained through training will stimulate human energy that will, in turn, translate to increased productivity and ultimately enhanced profitability," said Deon Herbst, CEO of CE at UP.

Professor Jerry O Kuye, Director and Chair of the School of Public Management and Administration, commented that “the School of Public Management and Administration (SPMA) at the University of Pretoria is the first school of this kind to develop tailor-made courses to meet the needs of specific politicians and officials. It is in the fortunate position that the SPMA can align the critical requirements of successful training and development through interactive learning programmes. Furthermore, the University accredits training courses. The School of Public Management and Administration is the leading mind in the procurement and training of public servants since 1994.”

He went on to say, “The Executive Leadership Municipal Development Programme (ELMDP) is a course that has been designed in such a way that the democratic requirements of the South African state form the basis of every policy, administrative structure and management practice.”

According to Professor David Fourie, the Course Leader, “The programme provides a background necessary to understanding the management functions and intergovernmental relations applicable to local government. It was designed to ensure accelerated development of knowledge and skills required for effective implementation of the municipality’s vision and mission.”

“After completion of the programme, the delegates will have an in-depth working knowledge of municipalities and the local government as well as understand the interrelationships between municipalities. The delegates will also be able to contribute meaningfully to the development, introduction and implementation of municipal policies and enhance their capabilities within the local government,” he added.