WATCH: Policymaking in the Democratic Alliance

If you are studying policymaking, working in this space or interested in pursuing this career path, hear from a WSG alumnus on policymaking in one of South Africa's major political parties. 

About Cuthbert:

Mat Cuthbert is a seasoned public policy expert who serves as the Head of Policy and a Member of Parliament for the Official Opposition in South Africa. In his current role, he is responsible for formulating party policy, drafting election manifestos and providing strategic policy direction to the party’s leadership.

He started his career as a political staffer, followed by a term as a municipal councillor, and most recently, he was the Shadow Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry and Competition.

He holds a Bachelor of Political Science in Political Studies (UP), a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (WBS), and a Master of Management in the field of Public Policy (WSG). He has also completed numerous professional development courses in economics, legislative drafting, and political leadership.

His core areas of interest are public policy analysis, strategy and communications. He is passionate about solving the unemployment crisis that South Africa finds itself in and believes that meaningful employment is the only route out of poverty into prosperity.

He is also an avid writer on topics ranging from trade policy to current affairs and international politics. In his spare time, he enjoys reading non-fiction books, watching football and sampling different cuisines from around the world.