NAKASONGOLA DISTRICT INDUCTS NEWLY RECRUITED STAFF, EMPHASIZES DISCIPLINE AND SERVICE DELIVERY

Nakasongola District Local Government has today conducted an induction training for newly recruited staff at the District Production Hall, officially ushering them into public service. The induction brought together officers from various departments, including health workers, education assistants, community development officers, engineers, ICT officers, doctors, nurses, and midwives.

During the induction, the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Daris Kaggwa, emphasized the importance of understanding individual job descriptions, dedication to duty, and commitment to quality service delivery. He encouraged the new staff to familiarize themselves with all government programmes and actively support their implementation, noting that effective service delivery enhances public confidence and appreciation of government initiatives.

Mr. Kaggwa underscored the need for professionalism, discipline, and ethical conduct in public service. He advised staff to love their work, serve clients diligently and courteously, and urged health workers in particular to provide compassionate and welcoming care to patients to discourage self-medication. He further encouraged officers to live within their means, save regularly, lead simple and exemplary lives, and reside near their duty stations to minimize absenteeism and unnecessary commuting challenges. Staff were also reminded to uphold confidentiality at the workplace and maintain integrity in both their professional and personal lives.

As part of the induction, newly appointed staff on probation took the official oath and the oath of secrecy, administered by the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, formally binding them to the values, ethics, and responsibilities of public service.

Addressing the participants, the Senior Education Officer, Dr. Charles Serunjogi, who represented the District Education Officer, advised education assistants to pursue further training and upgrade their qualifications without delay. He noted that the probation period has been reduced to six months, after which staff are assessed for confirmation into permanent service based on competence and performance. Dr. Serunjogi emphasized the critical role of education assistants in teaching, mentoring learners, providing psychosocial support, and serving as role models. He cautioned against learner harassment, substance abuse, and professional misconduct, while urging strict adherence to the national curriculum, active participation in co-curricular activities, and continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and short courses.

Representing the District Health Officer, Mr. Ronald Kirya addressed the health workers, highlighting the professional code of conduct governing their service. He stressed the importance of integrity, respect for patients, confidentiality of patient information, and the need to avoid drug theft. Health workers were encouraged to continuously improve their skills through Continuous Medical Education and to uphold high ethical standards in service delivery.

In his closing remarks, the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer cautioned staff against absenteeism, lateness, and misconduct, urging them to report for duty on time and remain committed to their responsibilities. He advised officers to avoid alcohol abuse, exercise patience during workplace challenges, and refrain from making impulsive decisions such as resigning or seeking early retirement. He further guided staff on salary matters, advising them to formally channel any concerns through their immediate supervisors to the Chief Administrative Officer. Staff were also reminded that one must work for not less than 15 days in a month to qualify for salary payment.

The induction training marked a key milestone in orienting newly recruited staff to the values, expectations, and responsibilities of public service, reinforcing the District’s commitment to effective service delivery across all sectors.