By: Nyima Sillah
The Civil Service Reform on Wednesday validated a draft policy document which will guide the smooth implementation of the system throughout the Civil Service.
Speaking at the validation ceremony held at Metzy Hotel, Kotu, Lamin Jawara, Permanent Secretary for Civil Service expressed that a sound performance management system will ensure that public servants are hold accountable for what they are assigned to do. Adding, that will result in overall performance of the government with its attendant economic growth.
He divulged that they are aware of the fact that for PMS to be effectively implemented, certain prerequisites need to be addressed which includes updated sectorial strategic plans, Schemes of service, job description and others.
“We believe our MDAs have got all it takes or have met most of these prerequisites to implement policy management system. And we will continue to collaborate with them to meet these requirements,” he assured.
Meanwhile Salimatta E.F Touray, Deputy Secretary General dilated on the purpose of the workshope which was to consult the stakeholders on a draft performance management system policy prepared by PMO to guide the design and implement performance management system that will contribute to an effective government.
She went on saying the competitive and comparative advantage of nations depends primarily on the performance and effectiveness of government’s implementation of sound policies and optimal utilization of limited resources.
However, she said an enhanced delivery of public services and effective implementation of public policy programs and projects will positively affect the welfare of all citizens. “As a government we are always concerned that the service rendered by our Ministries, Departments and Agencies are primarily targeted at the most vulnerable and marginalizes communities,” she noted.
According to her, the diagnostic report of the Civil Service Reform Program 2018-2027 has revealed that over the time there has been limited adherence to meritocratic principles in recruitment, training and promotion of civil servants. “This means that schemes of service are not systematically administered and the practice of regular staff appraisals as the basis for staff promotions has fallen to disuse,” she added.
Therefore, she said the role of the participants is to scrutinize the draft policy document and make more realistic response in management challenges and thanked the stakeholders for their commitment to the transformation of the Civil Service.
