The Civil Service Council has embarked on a familiarisation visit to various Ministries as part of its oversight mandate, engaging Ministers, Management, and staff to better understand their operational challenges and identify ways for improved service delivery. It also formed part of broader efforts to strengthen institutional performance under the government’s “resetting Ghana” agenda.

Addressing the staff, Dr. Lawrence Kannae emphasized the need for them to embrace a renewed sense of purpose and professionalism in service delivery. He urged them to adopt innovative approaches in their work to help reshape public perception of the Civil Service. According to him, restoring confidence in public institutions requires commitment, efficiency, and a willingness to “do things differently.”

He emphasized that government flagship policies, such as the 24-hour economic policy, could hardly be achieved unless there was a cultural transformation of the negative attitude of the staff.

Highlighting the perceived negative behaviors of Civil Service staff, Dr. Kannae noted that lateness at work, absenteeism, unprofessional dressing, and ineffective communication, and lack of urgency are some of the issues that need to be addressed within the public service.

In a brief statement, the Head of the Civil Service, Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darkoh, commended the staff for their dedication to fulfilling the Service’s mandate. He urged them to continue upholding the ethics of the Service with the highest regard in their daily work activities.

Interactive discussions during the visit revealed a range of concerns among staff. Key among them were issues related to conditions of service, comprehensive health insurance policy, delays in promotions, and inadequate office and residential accommodation.

Transportation challenges and other human resource-related matters were also highlighted as areas requiring urgent attention.

Staff members expressed the hope that the Council’s engagement would lead to tangible reforms that improve their welfare and enhance productivity across the ministries.

So far, the team has visited eleven Ministries, including the Office of the Head of the Civil Service; the Ministry of Food and Agriculture; the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources; the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry; the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

Others include Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology; the Ministry of Energy and Green Transitions; the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment; the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Health; and Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

The familiarisation tour is expected to continue across other Ministries as part of efforts to build a more responsive and efficient Civil Service.

 

SOURCE: PR UNIT