January/February 2026 | Foundations of Public Administration
(UNISA)
,Question 1
What is the primary role of public administration?
A) To enforce laws and regulations
B) To implement government policies
C) To conduct elections
D) To manage private enterprises
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The primary role of public administration is to implement government
policies and ensure the effective delivery of services to the public.
Question 2
Which of the following is NOT a function of public administration?
A) Policy formulation
B) Service delivery
C) Law enforcement
D) Private sector management
Correct Option: D
Rationale: Public administration primarily focuses on government functions such as
policy formulation and service delivery, while private sector management falls outside
its scope.
Question 3
The concept of "bureaucracy" is best described as:
A) A structured system of administration characterized by clear hierarchies and
rules
B) An informal network of decision-making
C) A method for reducing government size
D) A way to increase public participation in governance
Correct Option: A
Rationale: Bureaucracy refers to a structured system of administration characterized
by specific hierarchies, formal rules, and regulations that govern operations.
Question 4
The term "public policy" generally refers to:
, A) The actions taken by government to address societal issues
B) The rules set by private corporations
C) The opinions of the general public
D) The methods of marketing used by government organizations
Correct Option: A
Rationale: Public policy encompasses the actions and decisions taken by the
government to address societal issues and improve the welfare of citizens.
Question 5
Public administration is influenced by which of the following theories?
A) Marxist theory
B) Systems theory
C) Classical management theory
D) All of the above
Correct Option: D
Rationale: Public administration is influenced by a variety of theories, including
Marxist, systems, and classical management theories, as they provide different
perspectives on governance and administration.
Question 6
Which of the following is a characteristic of New Public Management?
A) Centralized decision-making
B) Emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness
C) Strict adherence to rules
D) Minimal accountability
Correct Option: B
Rationale: New Public Management focuses on improving efficiency and effectiveness
in public services, often by incorporating private sector practices.
Question 7
Public administrators should prioritize:
A) Personal interests
B) Political affiliation
C) Public interest
D) Bureaucratic procedures
Correct Option: C