Modern administrative practices focus of training for Parliamentary staff



Thirty-nine parliamentary employees completed an intensive 3-day training program organized by SUNY/CLD in June and July of 2007 focused on enhancing the administrative capacities of the LP.

The Center worked extensively in coordination with the Research and Studies Directorate of the Lebanese Parliament (LP) to develop a detailed work plan of training sessions to support overall modernization and administrative reform efforts. A series of meetings were held with the Directorate to assess current and future needs in terms of training, to develop the broad outline of the curriculum, and to coordinate a schedule given the multiple committee assignments of each employee.

Based on these meetings, a comprehensive training program was developed for three of the multiple categories of employees divided according to level of responsibility within Parliament. Organized to create a common understanding amongst employees concerning the challenges to good governance within the context of the administration of the LP, the program was also designed to familiarize participants with modern administrative work procedures highlighting the critical role of the supervisor in enhancing effectiveness and performance.

Utilizing participatory techniques such as case studies, brainstorming, and open forum discussions, the training addressed issues related to communication, team building, employee performance evaluation, and good governance. The training program for higher level employees extended the basic curriculum to include advanced discussion of a number of topics such as administrative modernization, organizational development, performance management, and effective leadership. Participants were asked at the conclusion of the training to complete an extensive evaluation of all aspects of the course, results that were compiled and analyzed providing useful feedback for future training.