The public service as a learning organisation

Abstract

The Public Service as a learning organisation is high on government's agenda as a way of promoting effectiveness and efficiency. This article suggests that the learning organisation is an aim worth striving for, keeping in mind that adapting to the ever-changing environment would mean that the aim would never be fully achieved. The learning organisation is built on specific blocks that affect and impact on the learning culture of the organisation. The building blocks have to be in place before an organisation could characterise itself as a learning organisation. Implementing the building blocks are a challenge for human resource management in the Public Service. The important factors contributing to a successful organisation, namely leadership and strategic intent are discussed and the various challenges managers have to be aware of in the implementation of the learning organisation, are highlighted. Lastly, how the Public Service become a learning organisation and its receptivity to the concept, are described.