The role of effective communication at the local government level was underscored when heads of departments of regions four and ten were brought together for a seminar organized by the Ministry of Local Government.
Minister Kellawan Lall, in his address to the participants said more training for officers in local government was vital as the local government system is more intimately involved with communities and residents. "In communicating with the communities and with people from all the different backgrounds we have to ensure that we are fully understood and ensure too that people have understood something the way we mean it," he said. The minister also said it was time to upgrade the officers' skills as they are the government's ground officers.
Permanent Secretary Ganga Persaud expressed similar sentiments and encouraged the officers to brainstorm ways in which communication can be improved within their departments thereby improving their efficiency and effectiveness.
The seminar's agenda also included effective listening, communication models, core principles for interpersonal skills and guidelines to effective communication.
Fifteen officers were present at the start of the session. The seminar concluded last Thursday.