Edo State Governor, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, has introduced an initiative aimed at improving the workforce within the state’s Civil and Public Service by granting automatic employment to first-class graduates from both Nigerian and foreign universities. This initiative, part of the broader Graduate Development Programme, was announced by the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, in a statement made on a Friday. The intent behind this program is not only to attract high-caliber talent but also to enhance service delivery in the state by integrating top-quality graduates into the government workforce.
According to Okungbowa, the initiative is designed to motivate existing workers by presenting them with a competitive environment driven by the inclusion of talented individuals. The essence of the Graduate Development Programme is to develop and elevate the quality of manpower within the Civil and Public Service, reflecting Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to improving governance and service efficiency through the infusion of fresh, bright minds. This aims to create a more service-oriented workforce that can address the needs of citizens effectively.
The governor specifically called for first-class graduates of Edo origin—who attended universities anywhere in the world—to take advantage of this significant employment opportunity. Though the program currently targets graduates who completed their degrees from 2020 onward, there are prospects for extending this initiative to encompass a broader range of graduates in the future. The emphasis on Edo origin graduates underscores the intention of the program to foster local talents and promote their contributions to state development.
Selected graduates will benefit from a structured experience that involves being rotated among various governmental ministries, departments, and agencies. This rotational experience is designed to provide these graduates with diverse exposure and practical experience within the public sector and, potentially, private sectors. By doing so, the initiative not only aims to cultivate a well-rounded workforce but also ensures that these talented individuals can gather critical insights that contribute significantly to the overall growth and administration of the state.
Moreover, the success of the Graduate Development Programme is tied to the challenge of not just attracting first-class talent but also ensuring their retention within the state service. The governor’s strategy reflects awareness of the common pitfalls many governance systems face, where high-quality employees may leave for better opportunities elsewhere. Hence, the initiative is framed not just as recruitment but as a sustainable approach to building a resilient state workforce.
In summary, Governor Okpebholo’s initiative stands as a transformative step toward enhancing the quality of civil service in Edo State. By tapping into the potential of first-class graduates and offering them unique opportunities for development and employment, the program sets a precedent for elevating governance and public service effectiveness. It conveys a clear message that the state values education and talent while actively seeking to harness these attributes to benefit its administration and community at large. The long-term goal is not simply to fill positions but to cultivate a dynamic and efficient workforce capable of innovating and improving the quality of service delivery within the state.
