​The Gauteng Department of Social Development, Deputy Director General (DDG) Amanda Hartmann met with all of the department's Personal Assistants, Office Managers and some of the interns within the Support Services Branch at the Head Office Auditorium on Wednesday.
Addressing the meeting, Corporate Services, Acting Chief Director, Jane Msimang said, the aim of the meeting was to remind them about the Batho Pele Principles, build new connections and facilitate rapports among the budding PAs, Office Managers and interns. The meeting was also aimed at encouraging PAs to be diligent in their work, to provide detailed assistance to their superiors, to promote awareness of the impact Personal Assistants and interns have on the department's efficiency.

'As PAs, never underestimate your power; you are accountable for every document that your superiors interact with, therefore read everything that comes into and leaves their offices thoroughly, bridge the gaps. You are the engines that keep the systems going, so never underestimate your power and ability to create positive change within the department,' added Msimang.

Furthermore, the meeting sought to create alliances for innovative problem solving and tackling challenges among the influx.Msimang, stressed the importance of ethics, transparency, and preserving the utmost discretion with sensitive information.

Hartmann emphasized the Batho Pele Principles' values of 'Service Standards, Courtesy, and Giving Best Value,' and asked PAs to set an example for interns by being proactive, present, and building a functional work environment. This can be accomplished by remaining efficient and ensuring that all documents are received and sent on time and in good quality.