TPAD – Performance Contracting for Heads of Public Institutions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Performance contracting is an essential part of public sector reforms aimed at improving efficiency and accountability in the management of public services. For heads of public learning institutions, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) oversees the performance contracting (PC) process, ensuring that targets are set and met according to national guidelines. This guide provides an overview of the steps involved in performance contracting and the role of administrators within the TPAD portal.
Step 1: Setting Performance Contract (PC) Targets
At the start of each academic year, heads of institutions are required to:
- Download the approved performance contract tool from the TSC website.
- Develop an operational work plan outlining the activities, timeframes, resources required, and responsible personnel for achieving the set targets.
- Present both the performance contract and the school’s operational work plan to the Board of Management (BOM) for approval by 31st December for both primary and secondary institutions.
Step 2: Signing of the Performance Contract
Once the operational work plan is approved:
- The performance contract is signed by the TSC county director on behalf of the Commission Secretary.
- This process should be completed by 15th January.
Step 3: Cascading the Performance Contract to Staff
As the head of the institution, it is your responsibility to ensure that all staff members are aware of the performance contract targets and are involved in its implementation. You will:
- Cascade the performance contract targets down to various staff members and departments within the school to ensure alignment with institutional goals.
Step 4: Implementation and Reporting
Throughout the year, in consultation with institutional stakeholders, you will:
- Continuously monitor the progress of the performance contract.
- Prepare timely progress reports, including an annual report, to track how well the institution is meeting its PC targets.
Step 5: Presentation of Evidence for Evaluation
To ensure transparency and accountability:
- Prepare and submit termly and annual performance contract progress reports to the TSC county director, along with evidence of the institution’s achievements.
- The TSC county director will verify the submitted evidence and rate the institution’s performance against the set targets, based on the allocated weights.
Step 6: Review of Achievement and Feedback
At the end of the year:
- You will have a meeting with the TSC county director to review the institution’s performance against the PC targets.
- During the meeting, feedback and guidance will be provided to help you enhance the effectiveness of the performance contract’s implementation.
Step 7: Submission of the Final PC Report to TSC Headquarters
After the review process:
- The TSC county director will upload the final performance contract report to the TSC online portal, following the official guidelines provided by the TSC.
Conclusion
Performance contracting is a critical process for improving the management and accountability of public learning institutions. As a head of an institution, your role involves setting and implementing performance targets, reporting on progress, and ensuring that staff are actively involved in the process. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and effective performance contracting cycle for your institution.
For more detailed information on performance contracting, visit the TSC website.