The public sector consists of organisations that are run by the government and funded by taxpayers’ money. Such organisations include anything from schools and hospitals to state departments and local councils.

People working in the public sector agree that it is one of the most rewarding career paths, not only because it provides job security, but also because it also gives you the opportunity to contribute to your community. For example, if you work in local government, you could occupy a counselling position where you go out into the community and offer counselling services to people affected with HIV/AIDS.

Let’s look at three important things to know about working in the public sector:

  1. You get to help your community:

Working in the public sector allows you to work closely with the people in your community. It also gives you the opportunity to give back to your community and to society as a whole, as well as to make a positive difference in the lives of others.  

  1. Your working environment is often less demanding:

The working environment in the public sector is often less competitive, and therefore less demanding, than in the private sector. Additionally, working in the public sector often presents you with opportunities for ongoing training, skills development, and promotions or career changes.

  1. Your level of job security is higher than in the private sector:

While working in the public sector doesn’t give you absolute job security, it does make your position more stable than if you were to be employed in the private sector, particularly in the case of a downturn in the economy.

Because public sector organisations usually provide essential services to communities, and because they are funded by the state, they usually have more stability than private sector organisations. However, the same is not always true if you are appointed in a political position, or if you are employed by a parastatal organisation.

If you would like to find out more about a career in the public sector, simply click on the button below:

Find more information on careers in the public sector