The Bayelsa State Government has implemented a new policy allocating two days per week for farming activities for civil servants.
Under the directive issued by the Bayelsa State Civil Service Commission and approved by Governor Douye Diri, employees from Grade level 14 and below will now have three workdays per week, starting April 29, 2024, for six months.
In a circular signed by Biobelemoye Charles-Onyeama, the Bayelsa State Head of Service, the initiative aims that the policy tends to encourage agricultural participation among government workers.
“The objective of the policy is to boost food production throughout the state and ensure active participation of our employees in enhancing food security,” stated Charles-Onyeama.
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However, essential service providers such as teachers and medical personnel are exempted from the directive to ensure that critical services remain uninterrupted.
Governor Diri expressed optimism about the positive impact of the initiative on the state’s agricultural productivity.
“By allocating dedicated time for farming, we are taking a proactive policy step towards self-sufficiency in food production, which is crucial for our state’s sustainability,” Governor Diri noted.