The Human Resource Department of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has organized a one-day in-house workshop for staff on Records Management Systems and Local Government Service (LGS) Protocols in line with its commitment to continuous staff development. The workshop brought together eighty-five participants drawn from various departments, units, and the three sub-metropolitan councils under the Assembly.

Addressing participants at the opening session, the Metropolitan Chief Executive, Hon. Lawyer Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo, emphasized the importance of staff development in achieving the full potential of public servants. He noted that management remains committed to enhancing performance of the staff in their respective roles through regular capacity building.

Resource persons for the workshop were drawn from the Human Resource and Budget Departments of the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC). In his presentation, Mr. Alfred Buckman, Head of Human Resource at WRCC, explained that the training was informed by gaps identified by the Planning Unit during routine assessments across MMDAs in the region. He noted that feedback from promotional interview sessions also highlighted the need for improved knowledge in records management and adherence to the Local Government Service protocol.

Mr. Buckman stated that the newly introduced records management system aims to provide a standardized filing structure across the Local Government Service, reducing discrepancies and addressing the issue of frequently missing correspondence. He stressed the importance of proper record-keeping, describing it as the lifeblood of any institution. He urged staff to support the Records Management Unit to ensure its effective operation.

The Regional Budget Analyst, Mr. Kofi Taylor, for his part, highlighted that understanding the Local Government Service protocols enhances our appreciation of the responsibilities associated with our roles. He described the protocols as foundational knowledge for all staff under the Service. He urged personnel to familiarize themselves with the LGS’s mission, vision, core values, and code of conduct to guide their actions and decisions in service delivery.

He reminded staff that discipline and adherence to the provisions of the LGS are not optional but essential for career growth and excellent service. He encouraged all to see their roles as a call to serve the local population, stressing that staff should uphold the values of the Service to make a positive and meaningful impact.

The workshop concluded with a call for staff to internalize the lessons learned and apply them diligently in their daily operations.