The Public Service Commission (PSC) has directed all Chief Executive Officers of state corporations to enforce compliance with newly reinstated mandatory in-service training programmes. This move, aimed at enhancing public service performance, comes as part of broader reforms targeting skills development and effective service delivery in government institutions.
In a circular issued to state corporations, the PSC emphasized the government’s commitment to building a competent, efficient, and results-driven public sector. The Commission cited a noticeable decline in performance and service delivery following the suspension of key training initiatives in 2020, attributing this to emerging gaps in skills, knowledge, and work ethic among public officers across all levels.
“To ensure the public service is effective and efficient, the government acknowledges a significant skill and competency gap that has been worsened by the suspension of essential in-service training programmes,” read the PSC circular.
The reintroduced training modules include the Strategic Leadership Development Programme (SLDP), the Senior Management Course (SMC), and the Supervisory Skills Development Course (SSDC). These programmes are designed to equip public officers with leadership, managerial, and operational skills necessary for efficient service delivery.
Moreover, the PSC reiterated that a Master’s Degree remains a mandatory qualification for all director-level appointments in the public service. Officers seeking promotions to senior roles must also meet this academic requirement, reinforcing the emphasis on academic and professional excellence within the civil service.
In recognition of previous lapses in compliance, the PSC has granted a two-year moratorium from the date of the circular to officers who have already ascended to higher grades without completing the required training. This grace period allows affected personnel to meet the stipulated training standards without jeopardizing their current roles.
The reinstatement of in-service training marks a significant step toward revitalizing Kenya’s public service. As the government focuses on delivering quality services to citizens, strengthening human capital through structured and mandatory training is expected to play a pivotal role in transforming the sector.
