Mukono District Holds Induction Training for Newly Recruited Staff: New Public Servants Urged to Embrace Government Programs and Professional Growth.

Mukono District Headquarters:

Mukono District Local Government has conducted a one-day induction training for newly recruited civil servants across various departments. The session aimed to orient the new staff into public service, emphasizing values of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

The training, held in the Chief Administrative Officer’s Boardroom, followed a district-wide recruitment exercise advertised on 25th November 2024. A total of 88 positions were declared vacant and filled through a competitive selection process overseen by the Mukono District Service Commission. Successful candidates have now been appointed to serve in various sectors under the district administration.

While opening the training, Mr. Daniel Kamara, Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and ethical conduct in government service. He cautioned against working in isolation, underscoring the collective nature of public administration.

“We are public servants, and our work must reflect the values of honesty, teamwork, and service. Avoid corruption and focus on uplifting the people you are meant to serve,” he urged.

Ms. Annet Bwanika Nnalongo, Principal Human Resource Officer and Secretary to the District Service Commission, tackled key areas related to work ethics. She reminded the recruits about the importance of punctuality, commitment to official duties, adherence to working hours, and avoidance of multiple employments while in service. She also stressed the need for appropriate dress code and proper time management in the workplace.

In a similar tone, Mr. Kazibwe Stephen, another Principal Human Resource Officer, warned against behaviors that attract disciplinary actionincluding destruction of government documents, insubordination, sexual harassment, failure to account for public resources, and lobbying for transfers.

“Once recruited, you must be ready to serve anywhere in the district. Running to politicians for transfers undermines the system and could cost you your job,” he cautioned.

He also warned especially teachers against excessive borrowing, stating that the resulting financial distress often leads to absenteeism and poor performance.

Mr. Kikomeko Rashid, the District Education Officer, urged the new staff to uphold professionalism, maintain discipline, and avoid intoxication. He emphasized effective communication as a tool for building trust and preventing conflicts.

“Know how to communicate, when to communicate, and to whom. Good communication can prevent conflicts and build trust,” he advised.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Administrative Officer, Ms. Elizabeth Namanda encouraged the new employees to avoid arrogance and dependence on “godfathers” or “godmothers” within the system. Instead, she called for hard work, humility, and a thorough understanding of government programs.

“You are public servants, not bosses. Empower yourselves with knowledge of government programs and fit into Uganda’s broader vision of transformation,” she advised.

The induction training was officially closed by Hon. Jorem Kabali Kimera, District Vice Chairperson and Secretary for Finance and Administration, who represented the District Chairperson, Hon. Rev. Dr. Peter Bakaluba Mukasa. In his remarks, Hon. Kabali congratulated the new recruits and urged them to seize the opportunity to grow within the public service.

“This is your opportunity protect it. Avoid stressors by focusing on your goals, studying further while you are still young, and accepting postings even in hard-to-reach areas,” he advised.

He also encouraged them to be non-partisan, respectful, approachable, and open to continuous learning in order to enhance service delivery.

At the end of the session, the new civil servants took the Official Oath and Oath of Secrecy, administered by Mr. Daniel Kamara on behalf of the Chief Administrative Officer.

The induction training marked a critical milestone, reminding the recruits that public service is not just a job but a noble calling. With the right attitude, knowledge of government operations, and strong ethical foundations, these new civil servants are now well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the development of Mukono District and Uganda’s transformation at large.