Global and transnational governance: Implications for public administration teaching

Abstract

Public Administration (PA) as an academic discipline has traditionally been anchored in the principles of state-centric governance, national implementation policies, and the management of domestic public affairs. However, the rise of global and transnational governance has significantly reshaped the context in which public administrators operate. This reality has a direct bearing on the corpus of knowledge taught in PA and the teaching thereof. Preparing for new governance realities and their demands necessitates a review of the competencies that prospective civil servants should have to navigate global and transnational affairs. The purpose of this article is to explore the potential influence of global and transnational governance on the corpus of knowledge of PA and its implications for teaching. It comprises an investigation of the dynamic relationship between the changing landscape of global governance structures, the evolving challenges faced by public administrators, and the adaptation of educational curricula and teaching approaches to equip future civil servants with the requisite competencies, skills, and knowledge. The findings made and the recommendations offered underscore the need for a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to PA teaching in the era of rapid globalisation.