The Public Service 101 course attended by 120 public officers has been labelled a ‘resounding success’.

Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer Jr. said the launch of the Public Service 101 course was a momentous occasion in the Department of Human Resources’ history, and by extension, the continued success and development of the Public Service.

The Deputy Governor said, “A lot of dedication was put into ensuring we develop this course into the incredible vision that was casted for it. This is, and will continue to be a landmark offering as we prioritise the learning and development of public officers.”

Mr. Archer added, “We recognise the need to have individuals educated about the Public Service; this achievement is the product of us being committed to doing just that.”

Over the three days, the public officers, who joined the service within the last year, received detailed information about the Government, best practices as a public officer, and a wide array of knowledge that would assist them in achieving success as a public officer.

As a core module, attendees heard from six Permanent Secretaries on their journeys to reaching the most senior roles in Government, as well as advice on how to remain focused, dedicated, and make the most of a career in the Public Service.

Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettome, MBE said, “It is a thrilling sight to see our public officers receive such critical information, with open minds and bright eyes, ready to learn and embrace a future of excellence in the Public Service.  This is the beginning of something very special.”

The Public Service 101 course marks the beginning of an ongoing programme, offered by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI), that will run for the foreseeable future, with focus on ensuring that all active public officers, at all grades, attend the course.

Interim Director at the institute Dr. Connie E. George said, “We are wholeheartedly proud of this accomplishment, this is a stepping stone on the path to achieving Public Service Excellence. As this course continues and more public officers receive the knowledge, we will begin to see this reflected in our service delivery.”

At the end of the course, the participants testified of how impactful and informative the programme was and how proud they are to be public officers.

The Public Service 101 will soon cross the sea to be offered to public officers on Virgin Gorda, and return to Tortola for another mass offering to officers based on the main island.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to ensuring public officers receive the learning and development opportunities needed to be successful in their roles.