The Ebonyi State Civil Service Commission has strengthened the standards for career conversion in the state’s public service, directing administrative officers and personnel from other cadres seeking conversion to demonstrate a sound understanding of the Civil Service Rules, Scheme of Service, and the responsibilities associated with their chosen professions.
Chairman of the Commission, Lady Virginia Okemini Oketa, gave the directive while addressing officers from various ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) who appeared before the Commission for the ongoing career conversion exercise.
Lady Oketa described administrative officers as the engine room of government, emphasizing that their competence, conduct and professionalism significantly influence the image, credibility and effectiveness of the public service.
She urged officers to thoroughly acquaint themselves with the Civil Service Rules and Scheme of Service, noting that a solid grasp of these guiding documents is essential for effective service delivery and the maintenance of high professional standards.
The Commission Chairman also stressed the importance of accuracy in official documentation, advising officers to carefully proofread reports, correspondence and other official communications. She further instructed administrative officers to adequately brief staff scheduled for promotions and career conversions before forwarding their documents to the Commission.
According to her, the era of acquiring academic qualifications without the knowledge and competence to defend them is over. She emphasized that continuous learning, professional development and practical competence are indispensable in today’s evolving public service.
Lady Oketa further directed officers who obtained additional academic qualifications while in service to present evidence of approved study leave alongside other required documents for the conversion exercise.
She encouraged applicants to develop a comprehensive understanding of their professional disciplines, stressing that competence remains a fundamental requirement for career progression within the civil service.
Speaking during the exercise, the Chairman of the Conversion Committee, Hon. Pastor Vincent Awoke, said every applicant would undergo a rigorous assessment to determine their suitability for career conversion.
He explained that candidates would be required to answer both professional and general questions relevant to their intended cadre before being considered successful.
According to Awoke, the assessment is designed to ensure that only qualified and competent officers are converted into specialized cadres, in line with the Commission’s commitment to promoting efficiency, professionalism and improved service delivery across the Ebonyi State Civil Service.
