Activities to mark Public Service Week began on Monday with a procession from the Financial Complex in Kingstown that culminated with a rally at Heritage Square.
The week of activities is being held under the theme “Fostering Innovation and Global Challenges: A Public Sector Perspective”.
Minister of the Public Service Frederick Stephenson told the rally that this year’s theme is fitting as countries strive to realise the 2030 United Nations Goals to achieve sustainable development amid fragile and uncertain conditions.
Stephenson said public workers shoulder the responsibilities for realising the UN development goals and he reminded public servants that their work is greatly impacting the lives of every community and society as a whole.
He also commended Public Service workers for their hard work and dedication over the years noting that they do a remarkable job even in difficult circumstances. He said St. Vincent and the Grenadines has joined with other nations this year in realising the 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development and is striving to navigate through increasingly fragile and unforeseen circumstances.
Stephenson pointed out that public sector institutions are actively cultivating innovative solutions and embracing forward-thinking mindsets to effectively address both current and future challenges.
He noted that some of the global challenges include climate change, public health crises, economic instability, digital transformation and geopolitical tensions.
The public service minister said various ministries and departments have developed and are conceptualising programmes and projects to foster innovations to keep the machinery of our government moving efficiently and effectively to build our nation.
He said some of these strategies are leveraging technologies, having a sustainable focus and engaging citizens.
Stephenson said he is cognisant of the global challenges and opportunities public servants face in implementing policies and programmes to promote sustainable development.
He called on young people to pursue careers in the Public Service and encouraged public sector workers to continue being innovative and collaborative to improve public service delivery.
The week of activities will also include a ministerial internship programme on Tuesday and Wednesday; Public Service Years of Recognition on Thursday, the Public Service Speaking Competition on Friday and church services across the country on Sunday, June 23, which is celebrated globally as Public Service Day.
In June 2002, the United Nations designated June 23 as Public Service Day to recognise public servants for their hard work and dedication.