Public administration has recently become a greatly discussed topic as different organisations across the world try to introduce proper governance and greater accountability into their administrative structures. Besides the need to understand the concept of organisation and structure, which remains essential for the successful implementation of the objectives of public administration, public officials also need to understand the role of ethics in their actions and decisions. A literature review demonstrates that officials in these organisations, both in the public and private sectors, are confronted with various ethical dilemmas on a daily basis both in their actions and their decision making. Ethical behaviour is crucial if public officials wish to ensure that government programmes are implemented in the most effective and enduring manner within the scope of proper governance and accountability. Leaders in these institutions, as par