The school of government of one GCC country is dedicated to improving skills and competencies across the public sector workforce. It targeted mid-level grades for a general competencies program. KGC designed and delivered a customized learning journey, including digital learning components and personal development workshops.

The school of government’s analysts identified two groups of employees at specific grades who would benefit from a general competencies program. These groups, team leaders and specialists, typically have highly developed professional and vocational skills. However, analysis showed that they would benefit from widening their skills base.

Specifically, these groups had the potential to be innovators and catalysts for improvement. They are often key influencers inside the government entities they work within. This potential could be better harnessed if the employees received training to understand and develop their strengths in broader areas.

The first phase of our solution was to engage with stakeholders at the school of government to understand the objectives. Together, we mapped out a competency framework that would provide those specific grades with the skills required. Our next step was to design, develop and deliver a comprehensive learning solution based on the government’s competency framework.

Our program focused on core competencies for developing oneself and others, and organizational development. The core competencies include emotional intelligence, lifelong learning, building relationships, risk management, planning and execution, and delivering outstanding service. Key to the success of the program was inspiring a culture of innovation within all government entities.

Another important factor was the delivery model. The students were busy practitioners in government departments. The solution needed to be flexible, accessible and personalized. This meant a hybrid approach. Some soft skills are better developed in workshops, others by digital delivery. The program offered both live personal development workshops and digital learning components. The latter featured interactive e-learning elements and virtual interactive session.