The Civil Service Commission has announced plans to introduce greater flexibility in the working hours of public sector employees, a workforce of more than 31,000 that delivers essential state services nationwide. The initiative is intended to create a safer, more accommodating environment and, in turn, to strengthen the quality of public service delivery.
Mohamed Mujuthaz, President of the Commission, said new protocols are being developed to ease the challenges posed by rigid schedules, acknowledging that strict attendance requirements can at times undermine productivity.
“Our goal is to foster an engaging atmosphere for all employees across civil service agencies and to provide opportunities for shaping a more effective work environment,” he said. “We have decided to introduce flexibility regarding attendance times to alleviate the difficulties employees face due to various circumstances.”
The reforms, set to be introduced in response to widespread staff requests, will include guidelines permitting remote work where feasible. Later this year, the commission intends to implement a “buffer time” system to reduce penalties for minor delays in arrival.
Attention is also being directed toward employees with caregiving responsibilities. The commission is drafting frameworks to support guardians of persons with disabilities, in line with directives issued by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The government is pursuing legislative amendments to expand support for working mothers. Current regulations provide six months of maternity leave and workplace flexibility until a child turns one; under the proposed changes, these accommodations would extend until the child reaches two years of age.