BY JENNIFER KUSAPA
THE Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service, Nego Sisiolo has highlighted that Gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) change must begin with oneself before others can change.
He said the involvement of important stakeholders, both within and outside of government is a reflection of the commitment of the Ministry of Public Service (MPS) and the government to ensure that policies such as GESI are responsive to the needs and aspirations of not only the Public Servants but also the people they serve.
“There are also other valid reasons why we need a GESI Policy, by ensuring that men and women and persons with disability participate and have equal voices in decision making and policy implementation.
“GESI strategies promote the full use of the nation’s potentials to address its challenges”, Sisiolo said.
Furthermore, a gender equitable and socially inclusive workforce will be able to better understand and support the various needs of everyone in the community and nation, leading to improved service delivery.
Meanwhile according to the Public Service statement, developing a GESI policy is a bold step by the Ministry of Public Service towards fulfilling its mandate and new strategic thrust.
The policy is also aimed at setting out appropriate considerations on issues such as recruitment, leadership, strategies to address workplace/sexual harassment and the establishment of gender targets in the public service.
PS Sisiolo also acknowledged the support made by the Australian Government for the provision of technical assistance in developing the draft policy.
Sisiolo was speaking yesterday at a validation workshop on the GESI draft policy.
