Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) Train the Facilitator (TtF)

Building Capacity for Democratic Excellence: The BRIDGE Train the Facilitator Workshop, The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC)

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) continues to strengthen its commitment to professional development and excellence in electoral management through its participation in the Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) programme. The Train the Facilitator (TtF) course, scheduled from 29 September to October 10, 2025, at The Centurion Hotel, marked another milestone in advancing electoral expertise and leadership within the organisation.

A total of 20 participants, nominated from various spheres, regions, and positions within the IEC, underwent an intensive two-week learning experience to become certified BRIDGE facilitators. The course not only deepens technical knowledge but also focuses on developing practical facilitation techniques, teamwork, and leadership skills. 

During the opening ceremony, Mr. Mosery Mawethu, the Deputy Chief Electoral Officer for Outreach and Acting Chief Electoral Officer of the IEC, accompanied by Ms. Audrey Gopane, Senior Manager, Human Resource Management, delivered the keynote address. He assured participants that they were in capable hands, as the two facilitators, Dr. Bridget Masuluke and Ms. Tomsie Dlamini, bring years of experience in electoral management from their previous work with the IEC. Mr. Mosery emphasised that the purpose of the training is to broaden participants’ knowledge and understanding, enabling them to perform their duties confidently without self-doubt. He emphasised that in addition to facilitation skills, BRIDGE enhances life skills. In response, Ms. Bridget Soko, one of the participants, expressed gratitude for the opportunity by the IEC and on behalf of all participants, affirming our commitment to making the most of the workshop. Dr Masuluke and Ms Dlamini created a safe and supportive learning environment conducive to effective adult learning.

Ms. Tebogo Mogomotsi, one of the participants, described the experience as intense and challenging, requiring significant effort. She noted that the facilitators brought a wealth of experience and knowledge, which they used to elevate the participants to a higher level of understanding. The course provided valuable tools for both personal and professional life, emphasizing how personal challenges can impact work. Ms. Mogomotsi expressed her appreciation for gaining facilitation and life skills that she can apply immediately. She also expressed her gratitude to IEC for the opportunity to attend the BRIDGE TtF Workshop.

Through the BRIDGE initiative, the IEC continues to invest in human capital development—empowering staff to contribute meaningfully to the country’s democratic processes and uphold the integrity of elections. This training exemplifies a forward-looking approach to building skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical facilitators dedicated to advancing democracy in South Africa.

Authored by : Jerry Mmagabo Ramatlhodi