Determinants of State Institutions Performance in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Public institutions performance has been the greatest concern for governments in different parts of the world. In Sierra Leone, the success of governments departments contribute towards the socio economic development of the country. Nevertheless, achieving exceptional performance in public institutions is encircled with enormous challenges that hinders the achievement of strategic objectives. Considering the quantum challenges surrounding public institutions performance, addressing those challenges requires consideration of numerous elements that could influence performance. However, this study focus on determinants of state institutions performance in Sierra Leone. The investigation started with an assessment of previous and existing performance benchmarks and then proceeded to its focus. This study was conducted in Freetown, using three public institutions as sample frame and obtained a sample size of 300 employees in a random manner, ranging from nonsupervisory to managerial level. We employed primary data collection method, using the Linkert scale system, which shows the following description: 5=Strongly Agree, 4=Agree, 3=Neutral, 2=Disagree, 1=Strongly Disagree. The study analysed primary data with descriptive statistics and correlational methods aided by SPSS 21. Data obtained from respondents shows that human capital development, rewards, effective and efficient administrative structure and personnel engagement determines state institutions performance. Respondents noted that if state institutions have efficient administrative structure, they would facilitate human capital development and empowerment, ensure efficient management of financial resources and engage personnel for effective job performance. The aforementioned elements constitute determinants of exceptional performance. This study is therefore noteworthy to performance management specialists, human capital enhancement professionals and public institutions in Sierra Leone.