PROF NARNIA BOHLER-MULLER JOINS PRESIDENCY'S POLICY EXPERT PANEL

Prof Narnia Bohler-Muller 

By: Neo Ntsele

Prof. Narnia Bohler-Muller from the University of the Free State (UFS) has been appointed to the South African Presidency’s Policy and Research Services Branch as part of a Panel of Experts.

Her role underscores the significance of independent academic insight in influencing public policy.

This panel, established by the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute under the Sustainable Development Goals Initiative, provides evidence-based advice to the Presidency on various policy issues.

Prof. Bohler-Muller’s appointment, which extends until 31 July 2027, recognises her notable contributions to constitutional and socio-legal scholarship.

She stresses the importance of the Presidency collaborating with the research community to tackle democratic and administrative challenges.

UFS Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vasu Reddy highlighted that this appointment emphasises the vital role universities play in producing knowledge that aids national development and public-sector transformation.

Prof. Bohler-Muller’s expertise in constitutional law, democracy studies, gender equality, and African thought demonstrates the interdisciplinary approach necessary to address societal issues.

Her work on the panel concentrates on professionalising the public service, aligning with the Presidency’s objectives to improve ethical leadership, accountability, and institutional capability in the public sector.

Prof. Bohler-Muller seeks to leverage her expertise to ensure that policy advice is both rigorous and practical, contributing to the University’s ‘Flourishing Life’ research theme.

She perceives this role as a continuation of her career, bridging academia and policy, emphasising that professionalising the public service is a constitutional and ethical pursuit. Her efforts align with initiatives like the National Framework Towards Professionalisation of the Public Sector, aiming to bolster institutional integrity and enhance the daily lives of South Africans.

Prof. Bohler-Muller believes that university involvement in public policy enriches research by exposing scholars to real-world challenges, enhancing future collaborations.

"This appointment reflects the value of partnerships between government, academia, and society in building effective institutions," she noted.