Public administration is the management and implementation of government policies and public programs aimed at serving the public interest. It involves planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling government operations to ensure effective delivery of public services and the enforcement of laws and regulations
. It is both an art and a science focused on translating political decisions into practical actions that benefit society. Public administrators work within government agencies at local, state, and federal levels to manage resources, oversee public affairs, and ensure accountability and responsiveness to citizens
. Key aspects of public administration include:
- Managing public resources and services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure
- Developing and influencing policies and regulations to promote social welfare and justice
- Coordinating among various branches and levels of government to implement public policy effectively
- Upholding democratic values, equity, and public accountability in governance
Unlike private administration, which focuses on profit generation, public administration prioritizes the welfare of the community and the equitable delivery of services to all citizens
. In summary, public administration is the discipline and practice of managing government functions and public programs to realize societal goals, uphold democratic principles, and improve the quality of life for the public
