Managers and senior officers within the National Statistics Office have acquired more knowledge about the Solomon Islands Government’s procurement processes after concluding a half day training on Wednesday this week.
The Ministry of Finance and Treasury’s Financial Controller, Bebeno Belo Mulesae facilitated the training.
“It teaches the officers how to do simple and complex procurement and focuses on the annual procurement plan”, Mr Mulesae said.
“We want to improve compliance with the NSO when it comes to procuring goods, works and services.
“I believe they are better equipped now and will do better than before.”
Heads of Units division, projects accountants and senior administration officers participated in the training including the Government Statistician and Census Commissioner Douglas Kimi, the Deputy Government Statistician Samson Kanamoli and the Deputy Census Commissioner, Michael Dimola.
Topics covered included the requirements when submitting payments to Treasury for simple, complex and annual Procurements, and the process involve before the Accounting officers for approvals.
The Government Statistician and Census Commissioner, Douglas Kimi confirmed this training is important and timely.
Mr Kimi said introducing the procurement processes to NSO and project staffs empowers and equip staff to be more aware of the processes, procedure and attached quotations/specifications before submitting the request to the certifying officer and further to the Accounting officer.
“It is important that the different procurements simple and complex must be done in alignment with the procurement & Contract Administration Manual and the PFM Act guidelines. It is important that these procurement are done with compliance to avoid delays from queries that might challenges work plan implementations.”
Meanwhile, Assistant Accountant for the National Statistics Development Strategy Project, NSDS, George McKenzie said the training was an eye-opener for him.
“There were some things I didn’t know before that I know now. I understand the process better.”
Echoing Mr McKenzie’s sentiments was Linda Walesara, NSDS Project’s assistant administration officer.
“I was particularly interested in the Evaluation and Specification topic.
“It is important for us supporting staff because we are always part of the implementation and coordination process of the different projects under the NSDS.”
Senior Secretary Anastasia Taghanepari described the training as useful, short and sharp.
“I am delighted that all the relevant officers were part of the training so that we are all on the same page. The NSDS is a 20 year project so there should be more trainings.”
Media Release from National Statistics Office Media Unit