The implementation of affirmative action policy within the Pretoria District of the South African Police Service

Abstract

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the implementation of the affirmative action policy within the Pretoria district of the South African Police Service. There is a need to examine and understand how the SAPS remove unfair discrimination in recruitment and selection processes in the implementation of affirmative action measures. Prior to 1994 the South African Police Force was male dominated and racism was fully institutionalised. Black people (Africans, Indians and coloureds), women and disabled people were marginalised and denied appropriate employment and advancement opportunities. The focus of the study was to identify challenges or problems encountered by the SAPS during the implementation of affirmative action policy; propose the strategies through which the SAPS can address discrimination in personnel staffing processes; and to assess and describe the criteria utilised by the SAPS in identifying the beneficiaries of affirmative action. The study includes the survey of international and national literature on the implementation of affirmative action. The study was conducted at 35 police stations within the district of Pretoria. The survey questionnaires were distributed to the respondents whereby three hundred and seventy (370) returned completed questionnaires, meeting the required sample figures. The respondents were selected by using a quota sampling. Qualitative research methodology was utilised in the interpretation and analysis of data. In addition, data was also collected through the documentary study. The major findings of this study illustrated that job requirements and responsibilities are seldom adjusted to accommodate disabled people. The communication of affirmative action policy is seen by respondents as being problematic. Respondents believe that affirmative action discriminates against certain groups within the disadvantaged groups. The research has divulged that the usage of interviews and involvement of supervisors in interview panels would minimise unfair discrimination in the allocation of promotional positions. Diversity management is not fully implemented to support affirmative action. People of all races are not employed to positions on the basis of their qualifications, experience and competencies as they deserve. The SAPS does not consider academic qualifications as criterion in the allocation of promotions.