Implementing a Good Governance, Transparency and Ethics Curriculum

Today in Belmopan, the Ministry of the Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform signed a memorandum of understanding for the “Implementation of Good Governance, Transparency and Ethics Curriculum.”  Those on hand for the handing over spoke about the need to strengthen links between those in the public service and other agencies and civil society organizations to combat corruption and foster good governance practices.

Henry Charles Usher

Henry Charles Usher, Minster of the Public Service

“The Ministry respects and believes fervently in the rule of law, accountability and transparency. It is committed to a government that is legitimate, effective and delivering for all Belizeans while building a mutually beneficial and strong partnership with our social partners. With this in mind, we come to strengthen the bonds with civil society organizations and develop public officers’ knowledge and skills.”

Keith Gilges

Keith Gilges, Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy

“To build a culture of good governance in any nation we need to raise public awareness and empower existing anti-corruption agencies and other institutions to ensure that resources allocated for the people are used for that purpose. Fostering citizen security and promoting governance are two of the primary objectives for the United States partnership with the government and people of Belize.”

Debra Sewell

Debra Sewell, Managing Director, Love Foundation

“The idea for project came to me while listening to the testimony of a public service officer during the now infamous passport inquiry. When asked about her participation in these unethical transactions, she said, “I did it because my supervisor asked me to.” That statement resonated with me. The entire scenario resonated with me. The question of whether she really didn’t know that she could refuse such a request was something that bothered me and that is what has influenced the development of this training manual that is being gifted to the Ministry of Public Service and Political Reform today.”

The training manual and other materials were developed with grant funding. It is a joint initiative between the Love Foundation and the Ministry of the Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform with support from the U.S. Embassy in Belize.