'APR to ensure promotion, posting on basis of merit'

Public Administration Minister Syed Ashraful Islam today told parliament that the government has adopted a set of measures, including the introduction of Annual Performance Report (APR), to make the public administration efficient, corruption free and dynamic.

The minister made the assertion while responding to a question from treasury bench member Muhibur Rahman Manik in the Jatiya Sangsad, reports BSS.

He said the APR has been introduced in the public administration ministry on a trial basis in place of the existing of Annual Confidential Report (ACR) system to ensure promotion and posting of the public servants on the basis of merit and competence.

Ashraful Islam said arrangements have been made for a six-month foundation course instead of the four-month course for newly recruited officers to enhance their skill.

"We have also finalised a module of 60-hour yearly in service training for the employees for increasing efficiency," he said.

The minister informed the House that an initiative has been taken to receive allegations through online to make the public administration transparent and accountable.

"A focal point has been appointed to dispose of the allegations in a speedy manner," Ashraf said.

The minister also said that the government has already introduced a policy to encourage the officials and employees in creative activities as well as increasing working speed for achieving the government's development goal.