PORT VILA, MARCH 12^th, 2025. The Office of the Public Service Commission (OPSC) through the Vanuatu Institute of Public administration and Management (VIPAM) has commenced the awareness of the Government Act and Public Service Act to staff under the Official Salary Act (OSA) to ensure optimal performance at the cabinet level.

As the training arm of the OPSC, VIPAM has initiated the awareness that is in line with Corporate Service Unit induction of OSA staff for the first time. The program began with the cabinet staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Biosecurity (MALFB) on March 11^th, 2025, and will be carried out for other ministerial cabinets in the next two weeks.

This initiative aims to help cabinet officers understand their roles and responsibilities under the OSA and the relationship between the executive (cabinet) and the administration section of the Government. It also seeks to improve the perception between politicians and public servants that at end of the day both parties are mere public servants that complement each other’s work in serving the people.

In his official remarks, the Minister of MALFB, Hon. Ian Wilson emphasized the importance of induction. He highlighted that his staff must treat their work (positions) with respect and fully understand their scope of work while serving under his cabinet.

“All cabinet staff will receive their letter of appointment following their induction. Staff members based in the islands will participate in a one-month attachment with various private agriculture companies in Port Vila. This experience aims to provide them with valuable insights into agricultural production to better support Agriculture Development Officers in the islands.”

VIPAM’s Acting Manager, Mr. Pierrick Lesines reiterated the crucial importance of OSA staff attending the induction program to thoroughly understand the roles and responsibilities outlined in their contracts.

“This is the first time we are conducting an awareness program for the Cabinet staff. It is vital because, ultimately, their performance will reflect the integrity of the office of a state minister,” he said.

‘It was an opportunity to promote collaboration between cabinet staff and administrative staff of the ministry, understanding who we are, how we can work together and address challenges together.”

The MALFB cabinet staff consists of political appointees holding positions such as cleaner, driver, private advisor, 1^st Political Advisor, 2^nd Political Advisor and 3^rd Political Advisor. A total of 16 staff members from the islands of Pentecost and Maewo attended the induction in Vila, while other staff members from Santo will be inducted later in Luganville. There were other political appointees from other portfolios who were in Vila and have returned to their islands which the VIPAM will allocate a time for their awareness.

The Office Public Service Commission through the VIPAM is actively addressing key priorities outlined in the Government’s 100 Days Plan. By focusing on enhancing and strengthening performance at all levels within the public sector, OPSC aims to drive excellence and efficiency in public service delivery.