South Africa’s public sector is investing in its next generation of women leaders. The AGSA–FASSET Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme is recruiting 500 senior women professionals for a prestigious fully funded 12-month leadership development programme designed to strengthen ethical governance, strategic leadership, and collaboration across government.
The Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme is a fully funded 12-month leadership development initiative supported by AGSA and FASSET. The programme will select 500 women working in South Africa’s public sector to participate in executive training, leadership coaching, and national networking opportunities designed to strengthen governance and leadership across government.
A new leadership development opportunity is opening for women working in South Africa’s public sector.
The programme is delivered through a collaboration between the Auditor-General South Africa and the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority.
It aims to equip senior women professionals with the skills, networks, and leadership tools needed to drive change within government institutions.
Importantly, the programme is fully funded, meaning selected participants do not pay tuition.
What Is the Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme?
The Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme is an executive development initiative designed specifically for experienced women leaders in government institutions.
The programme will recruit 500 women leaders from across South Africa.
Participants will join a national cohort focused on strengthening leadership across the public sector.
The programme is delivered in partnership with Duke Corporate Education, a globally recognised leadership training provider.
Programme Highlights
Participants will:
- Strengthen strategic leadership and governance skills
- Develop tools for ethical and crisis leadership
- Learn how to influence stakeholders and lead complex systems
- Participate in group coaching circles and leadership masterclasses
- Build a national network of women leaders
Graduates will also gain access to an alumni leadership network after completing the programme.
How Long Is the Programme?
The programme runs for 12 months and follows a hybrid learning format.
Participants will complete learning activities throughout the year while continuing their professional roles.
Monthly Time Commitment
Participants should expect approximately:
- Two days per month for learning modules
- Three hours for a leadership masterclass
- Two hours for group coaching sessions
Sessions take place during working hours, so participants must coordinate with their employers where necessary.
Who Can Apply for the Programme?
To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African by birth
- Be female
- Hold a minimum qualification of NQF Level 7
- Have at least 5 years of experience in a senior or executive management role
- Be currently employed in the South African public sector
Additional Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Work in an organisation affiliated with FASSET, or
- Work within a finance, audit, or compliance unit if the employer is not affiliated
Applicants must not have previously participated in a FASSET-funded Women Leadership Programme.
Women living with disabilities are encouraged to apply, and reasonable accommodations will be provided.
What Benefits Do Participants Receive?
Selected participants receive a comprehensive leadership development experience.
Executive Leadership Development
The programme focuses on:
- Strategic decision-making
- Ethical leadership
- Governance and accountability
- Managing complexity in public institutions
Coaching and Peer Learning
Participants will join coaching circles and peer groups designed to support professional growth.
National Leadership Network
Participants will interact with a cohort of senior women leaders across the country, building long-term professional relationships.
Immersive Learning Experiences
The programme includes both virtual modules and in-person leadership exchanges exploring best practices across government institutions.
Alumni Community
Graduates will join a national alumni network focused on strengthening public sector leadership and gender equality.
How Do You Apply?
Applications for the programme are submitted online.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official application page 👉 https://apply.workable.com/duke-corporate-education/j/C0FBBFF39C/apply/
- Complete the online delegate application form
- Upload required information and confirm eligibility
- Submit your application for review
Applications are handled through the programme partner’s recruitment platform.
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Final Thoughts
The AGSA–FASSET Women Leading in the Public Sector Programme represents one of the most significant leadership development opportunities currently available for women in South Africa’s public service.
With 500 fully funded places, executive-level training, and national networking opportunities, the programme is designed to strengthen leadership capacity across government.
For experienced women professionals ready to take their leadership impact further, this initiative offers both training and a powerful national peer network.
