Micro-learning to drive digital transformation of public service

Colombo, June 4 (Daily Mirror) - The Government has taken initial steps to launch a national programme aimed at digitising the public service and equipping public officials with essential digital skills, with a strong focus on introducing "micro-learning" as a practical training method.

A special national-level discussion on digitising the entire public service and developing the technical capabilities of government officials was held on June 3 under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne and Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Ruwan Senarath.

During the discussion, officials highlighted the need to modernise the public sector in line with rapidly evolving global technology trends and improve service delivery by enhancing the digital literacy of public servants. The meeting stressed the importance of transitioning from a traditional "people-based" administrative model to a more efficient "systems-based" approach.

Recognising the challenge of training hundreds of thousands of public employees simultaneously, participants proposed the introduction of a micro-learning system that delivers training through mobile phones using short video lessons lasting two to three minutes. Under the proposal, officers would complete a series of 10 to 15 brief learning modules instead of attending lengthy lectures.

The discussion also focused on overcoming resistance to technology among senior officials, encouraging the adoption of digital skills across all levels of the public service and strengthening cyber security awareness to minimise risks such as cyberattacks and data breaches.

Officials further discussed making the completion of digital literacy programmes a mandatory requirement for annual performance evaluations and promotions. Existing computer laboratories in government institutions and schools are expected to be utilised for training sessions after office hours, while gamification techniques, including digital badges and certificates, will be introduced to encourage participation.

The programme is expected to be implemented under a three-tier plan. Existing public officers will receive training based on their professional categories, including executive, middle-level and other staff grades, while future recruits will be required to possess recognised digital certifications before entering public service.

In addition, authorities plan to align school and university curricula with the country's digital economy goals to prepare future generations for a technology-driven workforce.

As an initial step, government officers will receive a basic awareness programme on cyber security and practical training on the proper use of official government email systems and collaboration tools instead of communication platforms such as WhatsApp and Viber.

The initiative is expected to be jointly implemented by the Ministry of Digital Economy, the Ministry of Public Administration and the Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government. Officials have been instructed to consult relevant stakeholders and prepare a comprehensive project proposal based on identified needs.