05 Oct 2023

Public servants have been advised to act with integrity in both their professional and personal lives as they are viewed as hallmarks of change to those they serve.

As change agents, public servants should demonstrate same in the delivery of public services.

Pastor Kopanang Ndubiwa from Church of God In Christ said when giving a word of motivation to the Department of Information Services staff in Maun on Wednesday that their actions, both at the workplace and outside, should speak volumes as the public trust in government, was based on how they used services, programmes and policies.

Employees were urged to develop a mindset of citizen-centric and focus on the factors that built and maintained their integrity in delivering public service.

“Time is now to embrace change and be wise on what you are doing and carry out your duties capably and competently. You should shape your lives and be exemplary to others,” he added.

Pastor Ndubiwa noted that the world was changing rapidly, hence the need to change with it.

He also warned them that the country needed people who demonstrated professionalism in their work and were not ready to cut corners or be influenced by money in their service delivery.

He encouraged officers to maintain zero tolerance towards corruption, adding that they should shy away from some Setswana idioms such as ‘Podi e ja fa e bofeletsweng teng,’ saying such could destroy their reputations.

Public servants were urged to speak against corruption and unethical conduct in the public service.

 They were also urged to promote good parenting styles so that they raise young leaders who put integrity, honesty and the citizens at the centre of their work.

Pastor Ndubiwa said it was a pity some people ignored the gospel of God, which aimed to shape their lives, adding that discipline was necessary in every household.

Discipline, he said was meant to make children choose acceptable behaviour and learn self-control, adding that alcohol and drug abuse were a serious concern amongst children.

Some parents, he said made a living out of the sale of alcohol and drugs and yet they knew the consequences of selling such substances to children.

He therefore appealed to them to explore other opportunities of making income rather than destroying other people’s future.

On other issues, employees were urged to consider investing in some income-generating projects as part of preparations towards retirement.

Pastor Ndubiwa said they should understand that at one point they would not be working while life had to continue, hence they should plan for their retirement.

“Start now by envisioning the kind of retirement you want. Consider tapping into opportunities that will help you enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle,” he added.  

One of the employees Ms Kehumileng Kelewendo thanked Pastor Ndubiwa for the powerful message, saying it would indeed motivate them to uphold the highest professionalism and ethical standards as they understood the high expectations related to their work.

She also appreciated that the mindset change concept would help officers to sharpen their approach towards service delivery and navigate complex situations or problems. ends