A LEGACY OF KNOWLEDGE AND SERVICE: DOROTHY MATHEBULA BIDS FAREWELL TO SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

By Tholakele Makena

• More than 17 years of committed public service within the Department of Social Development, contributing to the evolution and strengthening of Information and Knowledge Services in support of effective and responsive service delivery.
• Ms Dorothy Mathebula played a pivotal role in advancing adherence to PAIA and POPIA, ensuring ethical, secure, and accountable information management across the Department.
• Dorothy promoted a culture of knowledge sharing by initiating seminars and embedding practices that support evidence-based decision-making across the Department.
• Championed knowledge-sharing seminars by initiating seminars and embedding practices that support evidence-based decision-making across the Department.

With a distinguished career spanning several years in public service, Ms Dorothy Mathebula, Deputy Director: Information and Knowledge Services at the Department of Social Development, is retiring, bringing to a close a remarkable chapter of dedication, professionalism, and impactful service.

Ms Mathebula joined the Department on 08 February 2008 as an Assistant Director in Information and Knowledge Services. From the outset, she demonstrated a strong commitment to organising information in ways that are accessible, reliable, and meaningful. Her passion and expertise saw her grow steadily within the Department, culminating in her appointment as Deputy Director—an important milestone that reflected both her leadership and technical capability.

Her career in the social development sector was driven by a deep desire to serve others while leveraging her expertise in information management. She firmly believed that access to accurate and timely information empowers individuals and communities to unlock their full potential.

During her tenure, Ms Mathebula made significant contributions to transforming how information is managed within the Department. She strengthened data governance practices, supported the modernisation of knowledge repositories, and advanced systems that promote efficient and secure information sharing. Her work ensured that information became a strategic asset in supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making.

Among her most notable achievements was her role in strengthening compliance with key legislation, including the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). She also contributed to the development of the Department’s Knowledge Management Policy and was instrumental in establishing a Knowledge Management Portal, improving access to critical information and services.

In addition, she championed knowledge-sharing initiatives, including internal seminars that fostered collaboration and continuous learning across the Department. These efforts helped to build a culture where information is not only managed effectively but also shared to enhance organisational performance.
Ms Mathebula noted that her work ultimately contributed to improved service delivery for communities by ensuring that information is handled ethically, securely, and efficiently. Strengthened systems and compliance mechanisms enabled the Department to deliver more reliable, timely, and professional services to those who depend on them.

Reflecting on her journey, she described her greatest reward as contributing to a Department that continually strives to improve, becoming more organised, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people it serves.

Like many public servants, she navigated challenges such as limited resources and staff constraints. However, she addressed these through strong change management practices and by embedding knowledge-sharing as a core part of daily operations.

As she prepares to leave the Department, Ms Mathebula reflected fondly on the relationships she has built over the years. She described her colleagues as collaborators, mentors, and friends, highlighting the importance of teamwork, shared purpose, and continuous learning.

Throughout her career, she has remained grounded in the belief that while systems and technology are critical, people are at the heart of success. She emphasised that investing in people through training, support, and collaboration leads to stronger institutions and improved service delivery outcomes.

Offering advice to young professionals and interns, she encouraged them to remain curious, embrace continuous learning, and never hesitate to ask questions.

She underscored the importance of professionalism, patience, teamwork, and clear communication, noting that meaningful growth takes time and commitment.

Looking ahead, Ms Mathebula expressed excitement about her next chapter. She plans to spend more time with family, focus on her personal wellbeing, and explore opportunities to continue contributing to community initiatives. For her, retirement marks not an end, but the beginning of a new and fulfilling journey.

In her farewell message, she extended heartfelt gratitude to the Department and her colleagues for their unwavering support and shared commitment. She encouraged them to continue fostering innovation, collaboration, and compassion in their work.

While her departure marks the end of an era, Ms Mathebula’s legacy in Information and Knowledge Services will continue to shape and strengthen the Department for years to come.