On October 1st, 2024, the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) in collaboration with the Ghana Secondary Cities Capacity Support Programme, organized a comprehensive one-day training on Local Government Service Protocols and Performance Management System (PMS) at the ERCC Conference Hall in Koforidua. The training aimed at enhancing the capacity of staff across various departments to improve service delivery and streamline performance evaluations.
The program drew 67 participants from all the decentralized departments of the Council. This initiative was to address the capacity gaps identified during the monitoring of the 2023 Performance Contract, with a specific focus on improving performance target setting and aligning staff performance with organizational goals.
Mr. Yaw Adu-Asamoah, Regional Coordinating Director of the ERCC, emphasized the critical role that continuous professional development plays in strengthening local government operations. He noted that the training would provide staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet performance targets effectively, thereby enhancing service delivery across the region.
The training was facilitated by, Mr. Cyril Dzinyanu Xatse, Head of Human Resources, and Mr. Michael Agyeman, Head, Development Planning both at the ERCC. These presentations covered various aspects of Local Government Service protocols, including the phases of the Performance Management System, performance appraisals, and target setting.
Mr. Xatse, in his presentation on Local Government Service Protocols, highlighted the importance of adhering to service standards and maintaining ethical conduct within the framework of decentralized government operations. He stressed the need for staff to familiarize themselves with these protocols to ensure a consistent and professional approach to service delivery.
Mr. Agyeman’s session focused on the intricacies of the Performance Management System, detailing its planning, progress reviews, and evaluation phases. He walked participants through practical exercises on how to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) performance targets that align with the overall objectives of their respective departments. This practical approach ensured that participants left with tangible skills they could apply in their day-to-day roles.
A key highlight of the event was the group exercise, where participants were divided into teams to practice filling out performance appraisal forms. This interactive session allowed staff to engage with the material in a hands-on manner, further reinforcing the day’s lessons. Each group presented their findings and recommendations, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Mr. Adu-Asamoah, in his closing remarks lauded the participants for their active involvement throughout the training and reiterated the importance of continuously enhancing their professional competencies. He encouraged participants to implement what they had learned, emphasizing that improved performance management would lead to better service delivery, benefiting the entire region.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the training, noting that the practical sessions were particularly beneficial. Many called for extended training sessions and follow-up workshops to further deepen their understanding of performance management and ensure the continuous application of the PMS principles.
The ERCC remains committed to build the capacity of staff at all levels to meet the demands of their roles. Through such training programs, the Council aims to foster a culture of accountability, excellence, and efficiency within the Local Government Service.
TRAINING WORKSHOP ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICE PROTOCOLS AND PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR SELECTED STAFF OF THE EASTERN REGIONAL COORDINATING COUNCIL.
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