ASSESSMENTS ON THE ROLE BELIEFS PLAY ON THE SELFCONCEPT AND BEHAVIOUR OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT MANAGERS IN SOUTH AFRICA TOWARDS DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE

Abstract

Recognition of diversity awareness initiatives and problems’ relating to diversity were not
acknowledged and diagnosed in many local authorities in South Africa. Adequate research with
regard to the problem of managing diversity has been slow making it difficult for managers
working within local authorities to identify which positive behaviour is acceptable in
acknowledging and managing diversity. Also, the introduction of a diversity awareness climate
in local authorities has not been encouraged. There has not been an unfreezing, changing or
moving and refreezing process for behavioural change in many local authorities. Diversity and
the management of diversity is not something new to managers working for local government in
South Africa. Diversity has become one of the most frequently used words of our time and a word
almost never defined. Diversity has been used in discussions ranging from politics to
entertainment. Diversity is also used in so many different ways in so many contexts that it seems
to mean all things to all people”. To prosper in the future it is important to understand and make
better use of diversity in business, education, government, and in society in general. The solution
to South Africa's racial problems will not only be solved by managing diversity, managing
change and affirmative action programmes, but by the recognition and acceptance of the
diversity of others and by acknowledging and valuing the same.