Resetting the nation: Strengthening technical capacity in the public service

The public service plays a central role in supporting national development. It is the operational mechanism through which government policies are designed, implemented, and evaluated. As a professional institution, it provides continuity across political transitions and ensures that public administration remains consistent, responsive, and aligned with national priorities.

In recent times, however, the public service has faced growing pressures. Across ministries, departments, agencies, state-owned enterprises, and local government structures, there have been observable challenges relating to technical capacity, staff retention, and overall performance. These are often linked to the broader influence of partisanship, gaps in institutional oversight, and evolving expectations of service delivery.

Given the strategic importance of the public service in translating national vision into results, these challenges warrant careful consideration and a coordinated approach to renewal.

The importance of technical capacity

Technical capacity refers to the collective ability of public institutions and professionals to plan, execute, and monitor government programs effectively. This includes policy analysis, budget management, project delivery, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. A technically capable public service contributes directly to efficiency, accountability, and improved development outcomes.

Where technical capacity is strong:

 • Public servants are able to provide sound, evidence-informed advice.
 • Projects and services are delivered on time and within budget.
 • Institutions can identify challenges early and adapt accordingly.

Conversely, a lack of technical depth can lead to delays, inefficiencies, and a diminished public perception of state institutions.

Understanding the impact of partisanship

Partisanship within the public service can affect institutional neutrality and performance. When appointments or promotions are influenced more by political affiliation than by merit, there is a risk of weakening the professional standards that underpin public administration.

Common manifestations of partisanship may include:

 • Leadership positions being filled without due regard to experience or qualifications.
 • Staff hesitating to provide frank or critical input for fear of political consequences.
 • Disruption in institutional continuity due to changes in political leadership.
 • Difficulty attracting and retaining skilled professionals who seek environments governed by fairness and transparency.

These trends, when sustained, may lead to operational instability and affect public confidence in the service.

A system-wide perspective

The implications of diminished technical capacity and partisanship are not confined to a single tier of government. They are reflected across the broader public sector — from national ministries to subnational authorities and service entities. For this reason, solutions that aim to reinforce the integrity and performance of the public service must adopt a system-wide approach.

One key institution in this effort is the Public Services Commission (PSC). As provided under the Constitution, the PSC is mandated to guide recruitment, promotions, and disciplinary procedures across the public service. Strengthening its role offers an opportunity to reinforce a culture of professionalism and consistency throughout the system.

Reviewing the role of the Public Services Commission

A review of the Public Services Commission’s constitutional functions may offer valuable insights into how the institution can more effectively fulfill its mandate. Areas worth consideration could include:
 • Clarifying its authority in relation to senior appointments and human resource oversight across ministries, departments, and state-owned enterprises.
 • Strengthening its capacity to monitor, audit, and support fair and transparent recruitment and performance systems.
 • Reinforcing its independence, enabling it to act without external influence and to uphold the integrity of the public service.

Such a review, if pursued, would ideally be guided by a broad consultative process and aligned with broader governance reforms.

Pathways toward institutional strengthening

In parallel with enhancing the PSC’s role, several areas may be considered to support the overall strengthening of the public service:

1. Merit-Based Recruitment and Promotion
 • Independent recruitment processes supported by clear criteria and transparent procedures can help maintain professional standards.

2. Skills Development and Talent Retention
 • Ongoing investment in training, leadership development, and career progression can help build capacity and institutional resilience.

3. Modernizing Public Sector Governance
 • Updating regulations and introducing performance-based systems may contribute to a more responsive and accountable workforce.

4. Fostering a Results-Oriented Culture
 • Encouraging innovation, continuous learning, and recognition of excellence can reinforce a service culture that values delivery and impact.

5. Promoting Public Engagement and Transparency
 • Open access to government performance data and citizen feedback mechanisms can strengthen public trust and responsiveness.

6. Leadership and Stewardship
 • Senior officials and political leaders play an important role in modelling ethical behavior and reinforcing the importance of professionalism in public service.

Conclusion: Supporting Effective Governance Through Professional Public Service

The performance of the public service is closely tied to the strength and credibility of the state. As governments seek to meet development goals, enhance public trust, and respond to emerging challenges, a technically competent, professional, and non-partisan public service remains one of the most valuable assets available.

Efforts to review institutional mandates, improve human resource practices, and build internal capacity should be seen as part of a broader strategy to enhance public sector performance and national development.

This is an imperative that we cannot ignore.

The author is Akwasi Opong-Fosu, a governance and public policy analyst as well as a former minister of state