Edo Govt Unveils Virtual Monthly Public Service Knowledge-sharing Series to boost continuous learning, innovation and service delivery.
…Knowledge-sharing critical to building a self-sufficient Public Service — Dr. Okungbowa
The Edo State Government, led by Senator Monday Okpebholo, has unveiled the maiden edition of the Edo State Public Service Knowledge-sharing Series. The initiative aims to promote continuous learning, strengthen policy discussions, and deepen reforms in the civil and public service.
Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, Edo State Head of Service, disclosed this during a press briefing with journalists in Benin City on May 15, 2026.
Dr. Okungbowa said the Office of the Head of Service designed the initiative to support Governor Okpebholo’s vision for a self-sufficient and result-driven public service. He added that the programme operates under the Edo State Public Service Retooling and Enhancement Programme (Edo-PREP).
Furthermore, he explained that the monthly virtual platform would help civil servants drive reforms from within the system. According to him, the initiative also encourages constructive engagement, strategic conversations, and professional development.
He further noted that the programme aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE agenda, especially in education, institutional strengthening, and human capital development.
According to Dr. Okungbowa, Edo-PREP seeks to build institutional capacity by equipping public servants with knowledge, competence, and emotional intelligence. He stressed that these qualities remain essential for modern governance.
“In a rapidly changing world, effective public service demands more than dedication. It requires knowledge, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and excellence,” he said.
Additionally, he stated that the initiative would create opportunities for policymakers, administrators, researchers, technocrats, and development experts to exchange ideas and discuss practical solutions for governance challenges.
“The Governor’s directive is clear. The service must become self-sufficient. Therefore, reforms must come from within the system,” he added.
Dr. Okungbowa also said the initiative would strengthen the gains already recorded under Edo-PREP. These include innovation, digital transformation, capacity building, and performance management.
Meanwhile, the maiden edition of the Public Service Knowledge-sharing Series will hold virtually on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, by 10:00 a.m. West Central Africa Time.
The theme is: “Emotional Intelligence: A Vital Strand for Effective Service Delivery.”
Participants can join through this Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86709199650?pwd=fgDYR6sAMx7qsE5sdjpvq61yjBNb6M.1
Dr. Okungbowa explained that the organisers selected the topic because emotional intelligence plays a major role in leadership, teamwork, crisis management, and public engagement.
He also announced Mr. Osahon Omole, MCIPM, as the guest speaker for the maiden edition. Omole previously served as Edo State Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM). He currently serves on the Institute’s Governing Council.
Moreover, Dr. Okungbowa expressed confidence that participants would gain practical insights into workplace relationships, communication, conflict management, emotional balance, and productivity.
He added that the series would benefit both the public service and citizens. According to him, stronger institutions would improve governance and service delivery across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
“The ultimate beneficiaries of every reform are the citizens. When public servants become more competent and emotionally intelligent, governance becomes more responsive and people-oriented,” he noted.
Finally, he encouraged civil and public servants across the state to embrace continuous learning, innovation, and professional excellence.
“The future of the public service depends on our willingness to learn, evolve, and adapt. Knowledge remains a powerful tool for transformation,” he concluded.
Remarkably, the Public Service Knowledge-sharing Series will become a recurring platform for strategic engagement and intellectual discourse in the Edo State public service. Future editions will address key governance and leadership issues in modern public administration.
