College: Graduate School of Social Sciences

This major focuses on the principles and practices of local government and decentralization in administrative functions. Students will study public administration, local government operations, financial decentralization, and community development. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for careers in local government, public policy, and community leadership.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the principles of local administration and decentralization and their role in governance.
• Develop skills in managing local government operations and public services.
• Learn techniques of financial decentralization and resource allocation.
• Explore principles of community development and citizen engagement.
• Understand the impact of decentralization on public service delivery and governance.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in the field of local administration and decentralization.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address contemporary governance challenges.

Main Syllabus:

1. Introduction to Local Administration and Decentralization - An overview of this field, its history, and its importance in governance.
2. Public Administration - Fundamentals of public administration, including policy implementation and service delivery.
3. Local Government Operations - Study of the functions and responsibilities of local governments.
4. Financial Decentralization - Techniques for managing local finances and resource allocation.
5. Community Development - Strategies to enhance community development and citizen participation.
6. Decentralization and Governance - Principles of decentralization and its impact on governance and public services.
7. Emerging Trends in Local Administration and Decentralization - The impact of new trends, such as e-governance and participatory budgeting, on local administration.

Assessment Methods:

• Case studies and local government projects.
• Written assignments and research papers.
• Presentations on decentralization strategies and case studies.
• Participation in group discussions on contemporary issues.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Decentralization and Local Governance in Developing Countries" by Pranab Bardhan and Dilip Mookherjee.
• "Local Government and Decentralization" by Rondinelli, Dennis A.
• "Public Administration: An Introduction" by Marc Holzer and Richard W. Schwester.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of public administration, political science, and governance.

Duration:

Four years, combining lectures, practical projects, and internships.

Qualification:

Degree in Local Administration and Decentralization, depending on the program.

Target Audience:

Undergraduate and postgraduate students in public administration, political science, or related fields, and professionals seeking to enhance their skills.

This major prepares students to manage and improve local governance, leveraging theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and emerging trends in local administration and decentralization.