MEC Violet Mathye addressed a cohort of newly appointed and newly promoted employees of the Department of Transport and Community Safety at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane. The welcome session was more than paperwork and handshakes. It was an induction: a space to ground new recruits and reorient promoted staff in the purpose that binds them. HoD Mr Stephen Matjena opened with a departmental overview and a quiet challenge to every rank in the room. He urged appointees to see themselves as vital role players from day one, because every task, large or small, carries the department’s mandate forward.
The day unfolded through learning that settles the heart as much as the mind. Employees received presentations on Internal Control and Compliance, Employee Wellness and Special Programmes, Human Resource Management, the Public Service Code of Conduct and Ethics, controls on the departmental fleet, and the Government Medical Aid Scheme. Each session was a thread added to the fabric of their work, showing that service here is guided by rules, but sustained by care.
Delivering the keynote, MEC Mathye welcomed the new family and called them to let dedication, innovation and commitment shine in everything they do. “I would like to encourage you, from the outset, to invest in your personal and professional development. Continue studying, learning and improving your skills. We cannot grow or improve if we fail to keep pace with a changing world. Most importantly, make serving others your calling, work in such a manner that makes you, your community and family proud,” the MEC said.
She wished them successful and fulfilling careers and urged them to be exemplary public servants dedicated to the people.