In what is termed as the first step towards increasing accountability and performance within the education sector in Nyeri County, officials from the department signed performance contracts. Others present at the event yesterday included key county officials: Nyeri County Secretary and Head of Public Service Benjamin Gachichio, and County Executive Committee Member for Education Margaret Macharia.
It was yet another step in entrenching the culture of performance and accountability in the County’s education sector. Performance contracts entail specific expectations and objectives developed and dedicated to spur development through better service provision to the people.
Benjamin Gachichio called upon stakeholders to work in unison, participate, and be responsible, especially right from the ECDE centers to technical training centers; these are critical infrastructural institutions in developing the county.
Embracing cohesive teamwork and accountability level within our ECDE centers and TTCs is vital for our development goals. The performance contract shall guide us in delivering quality education and training,” said Gachichio.
According to Margaret Macharia, carrying out a performance contract allows one to understand the line of action that links his or her department to the organization’s objectives. She said performance contracts drive employees and give a feeling of belonging by setting clear expectations for workers and recognizing all achievements for a positive work environment.
“Performance contracts in the education and devolution sectors enhance transparency, accountability, and a goal-oriented approach. They chart an important pathway for continuous improvement towards the attainment of desired service delivery outcomes,” Macharia observed.
She added that the contracts also stay as an instrument of employee engagement for improved positive change in the sectors. With specific objectives outlined and clear metrics provided, all stakeholders of every county are aligned towards the attainment of desirable educational goals.
Present at the signing ceremony was the chief officer in charge of Education, James Kiretai, the chief officer in charge of Devolution Lucy Kiogora, James Gachuri, the director of Education, among others. Their presence underpinned the collective commitment to improving service delivery through performance management.
Performance contracts are expected to make a great deal of difference in the management and running of educational institutions in Nyeri County. This means laying down clear performance metrics and holding people accountable for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in education services.