Restructuring and performance of the civil service: the case of Ministry of Education and Sports

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between structuring and performance based on a case study of Ministry of Education and Sports. Specifically the study investigated: the relationship between restructuring and performance, relationship between restructuring and leadership style, relationship between restructuring and governance. All this was initiated by unsatisfactory performance. Cross sectional survey data was employed from a sample of 40 respondents who were purposively selected. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. A number of tools were applied for analysis and these include descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. For proper analysis these were accompanied with frequency tables. The findings of this study indicate that the causes of unsatisfactory performance include; concealing of information between departments, lack of proper coordination among various offices which results into either wrong deliveries or inadequate quantities or no deliveries at all. The lack of inclusive decision-making that leaves out people who play a vital role in the implementation process; the lack of teamwork in some instances, which is at times coupled with clashing of activities are also highlighted as causes of unsatisfactory performance. When these weaknesses are accompanied with delays in the release of the required funds which are at times inadequate, overall performance is undermined. Based on the above findings, this study recommends that: a. strengthening of the vertical and lateral channels of communication; b. Improvements in the coordination within the procurement office; c. Inclusive decision-making that involves all stake holders; d. A recruitment drive to fill posts in order to reduce work load and to improve overall supervision at all levels.