Permanent secretaries to explore the leading edge in Singapore

Twenty-five permanent secretaries from 18 Commonwealth countries will meet in Singapore for a training programme to improve management techniques.

‘Managing Complexity in Networked Government’ will run from 22 to 26 October 2007 and is jointly sponsored by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation.

The programme is tailored exclusively for permanent secretaries who assist ministers in carrying out their role and mandate. It aims to enhance their understanding of ‘portfolio co-ordination’ and impart skills needed for effective oversight of their minister’s organisational responsibilities.

It will help officials shape public sector reform by inculcating best practice models and developing results-oriented action plans.

The programme will include case studies, discussions, practical experiences, study tours and knowledge exchange exercises.

“Placing a keen focus on portfolio co-ordination is the key,” said John Wilkins, Adviser on Public Sector Management at the Governance and Institutional Development Division of the Commonwealth Secretariat.

“Portfolio co-ordination is an important task for permanent secretaries, and they have to ensure that the diverse array of organisations reporting to their minister are functioning together cohesively for best results.

“The study will help permanent secretaries support their minister, promote good governance and serve the public interest with greater confidence.”

Mr Wilkins explained that public servants execute government policy and deliver programmes and services through their ministries. Achieving excellence in public service delivery and policy design is only possible when those advising the minister are equipped to adapt and innovate.

The programme will also highlight Singapore’s progress in public sector management, as well as the strategies and tools its permanent secretaries have used in achieving effective portfolio co-ordination.

Secretariat Links:

• Governance
• Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation (CFTC)