Forty officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) have successfully completed the Knowing Your Public Service (KYPS) and Code of Conduct training facilitated by the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM).
The training marks a key milestone, making the officers formally eligible for confirmation and promotion within the public service.
The participants, all based at MAL Headquarters in Honiara, represented various departments within the ministry. The week-long training aimed to strengthen their understanding of public service roles, responsibilities, and ethical standards, equipping them with the knowledge required to perform effectively and with integrity.
The comprehensive program covered critical topics, including:
• The structure of government and the public service
• Laws of the Solomon Islands
• The role and functions of the National Parliament and parliamentary processes
• The work of constitutional offices such as the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Leadership Code Commission, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Office of the Auditor General
A key highlight of the training was the focus on the Public Service Code of Conduct, which is designed to uphold professionalism and foster an ethical culture within the public sector. The code serves as a guiding framework to ensure integrity, transparency, and accountability in service delivery.
“KYPS is vital for building the capacity of officers and is a requirement for position confirmation and promotion,” said IPAM Director Mr. Solomon Manea during the certificate presentation ceremony. “It provides a clear understanding of how government systems and processes function, as well as the roles of its various institutions. From governance structures to frontline service delivery, this training equips participants with the knowledge and skills to serve ethically and effectively.”
The officers completed seven modules, participated in group projects, and undertook interactive assessments including quizzes—promoting both theoretical and practical learning. The final session emphasized the application of the Public Service Code of Conduct in everyday work scenarios.
MAL Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services, Mrs. Elda Wate, commended IPAM for its continuous support in building the ministry’s workforce capacity.
“This training is no longer optional—it is compulsory,” Mrs. Wate said. “We are aligning our workforce with mandatory standards of excellence. Officers must understand their roles clearly, apply this knowledge in their daily responsibilities, and contribute meaningfully to public service delivery.”
She urged participants to carry forward the values and lessons learned, and to embody the principles of professionalism and service excellence.
This training initiative represents a significant step forward in the professionalization of the Solomon Islands’ public service. It sets a strong foundation for leadership development, improved governance, and a culture of continuous learning across government institutions.
Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Solomon Islands
