EFFICIENCY and accountability are the cornerstones of a well-functioning public sector, and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)-led government in Guyana has demonstrated a clear understanding of their importance in driving the country’s development forward. The government’s commitment to transformative change and the role of the Public Service Commission (PSC) in achieving these objectives is commendable.

Transparency, accountability, and credibility are fundamental values that must be upheld within the public sector. As Guyana moves forward on its path of progress, massive transformations are needed.

It is essential to establish transparency, accountability, efficiency, reliability, and credibility within our public service. These qualities are not only crucial for the government’s agenda but are also expected by both the international community and the Guyanese population.

The role of public servants cannot be overstated. Their performance directly impacts the delivery of government policies and tangible benefits to citizens. President Dr. Irfaan Ali has acknowledged the pivotal role of public servants and recognises the need for a cultural shift within the public service. Structural and monumental changes must be embraced to achieve the desired outcomes.

Among the necessary changes are the development of a professional public service equipped with the right skillset, exposure to training, and access to educational opportunities.
The government has made significant investments in transforming the public service, exemplified by initiatives such as the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarship Programme. This programme provides training both locally and overseas, aiming to equip public service employees with the necessary skills to thrive in an evolving economic landscape driven by technological advancements.

Efficiency and reliability within the public sector are not mere aspirations but critical requirements. With Guyana’s economy emerging as one of the fastest-growing in the world, President Ali emphasises that the public service must adapt and become the catalyst for transformation.

The public service should match the speed of Guyana’s economic growth, ensuring it is not only efficient but also reliable. The population expects a higher degree of service, and the government must deliver.

While Guyana boasts a talented public service in terms of skills, education levels, and competence, there is always room for improvement in attitude and work culture.

A highly motivated and service-oriented public service is necessary, where public servants treat citizens with respect and courtesy, going above and beyond to address their concerns. Every member of the public visiting a public office should be assured of a courteous reception and a commitment to addressing and responding to their concerns.

Accountability is a crucial aspect of promoting efficiency within the public sector. The government recognises this and aims to implement modern review mechanisms and evaluation processes to hold public servants accountable for their performance. By focusing on monitoring, the government demonstrates its dedication to promoting accountability, transparency, and responsiveness within the public sector.

To further enhance the monitoring process, the government plans to introduce a national call centre where citizens can report their experiences and concerns regarding public service delivery. This initiative aims to establish baseline standards for every health centre and ensures administrators are responsible for maintaining those standards.

By collecting feedback directly from citizens, the government can address issues promptly and ensure consistent and reliable services across all public service delivery points.

In line with its commitment to accountability, the government also plans to shift from traditional performance evaluations to more comprehensive approaches, such as 360-degree evaluation. Furthermore, competition within the system will be encouraged to drive motivation and ensure continuous improvement.

The government is fully aware of the critical role of an independent and accountable Public Service Commission in ensuring that the public service is staffed by individuals with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience.

The Public Service Commission has the vital responsibility of overseeing the public service in Guyana, including making appointments to public offices and exercising disciplinary control. President Ali stresses the need for the Public Service Commission to evaluate the performance of those responsible for implementing policies, as result-oriented governance and policy-making are paramount.

The absence of a functioning Public Service Commission since August 2021 has had significant implications for other constitutional bodies, including the Judicial Service Commission and the Police Service Commission. Therefore, the appointment of the newly-appointed members of the Public Service Commission marks the beginning of a new era aimed at promoting efficiency and accountability within Guyana’s public sector.

Under the leadership of Chairman Manniram Prashad and Deputy Chairman Melcita Agatha Bovell, along with commissioners Maurice Rudranauth Gajadhar, Chandrawati Leila Ramson, Mohandatt Goolsarran, and Janice Isabella Bowen, the Public Service Commission is poised to bring about the necessary changes to enhance the public service’s performance.

As Guyana continues to develop and flourish, it is crucial to maintain a public service that upholds the highest standards of efficiency, accountability, and service delivery. The government’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to the commission’s independent and impartial functioning sets a positive tone for the future. By working collectively to improve the public service, we can ensure that Guyana’s progress benefits all citizens, creating a brighter and more prosperous nation for generations to come.