Singapore's civil service ranked world's best in Oxford University study

Singapore's civil service has once again taken the global stage, earning the top spot in the Blavatnik School of Government's Public Service Performance Index. The nation leads the rankings, excelling in key areas such as border services, tax administration, and innovation strategies and practices.

"This ranking reflects the heart and hard work of every officer," said AUPE General Secretary, Mr. Sanjeev Tiwari. "As representatives of the workers who form the backbone of this success, AUPE congratulates all public officers for this accolade and takes pride in their accomplishments.”

AUPE remains steadfast in advocating for equitable and competitive remuneration, supporting workers' well-being, and encouraging officers to upskill through the valuable benefits available to union members.

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Equitable and competitive remuneration

This milestone reaffirms the importance of ensuring equitable and competitive remuneration for public officers. Their contributions—whether in shaping policies, delivering critical services, or innovating for efficiency—underscore their worth as a workforce to be reckoned with.

Fair compensation is not just about rewarding excellence; it is also essential for attracting and retaining talent in an increasingly competitive landscape. While progress has been made, AUPE continues to advocate for continuous improvements to ensure that our officers are not only rewarded fairly but also supported in meeting the rising demands of their roles.

Supporting workers’ well-being and work-life harmony

The public service has taken steps to prioritize the well-being of its workforce. Initiatives that promote mental health awareness, flexible work arrangements, and training programs are commendable efforts.

Work-life harmony and workplace fairness are essential pillars of a supportive environment that empowers officers to thrive. Beyond reducing burnout, these measures foster creativity and sustain the passion officers bring to their roles.

Mr Desmond, from a statutory board, expressed, “Reflecting on my management journey over the years, my approach has evolved from focusing on results to prioritizing staff well-being. A productive and harmonious work environment stems from understanding and supporting team members. This change has not only influenced the workplace culture but also contributed positively to achieving our collective goals. I firmly believe that when team members are content and mentally engaged, productivity naturally follows. Therefore, I continuously strive to create an atmosphere where everyone feels heard and appreciated.”

This highlights the significance of collaboration between the public service leadership and the union in creating an environment that supports officers' growth and well-being, enabling them to excel in their roles.

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Staying relevant for the future

As Singapore continues to evolve, so must its public officers. To maintain this global leadership, it is critical for them to stay employable and adaptable to future challenges. AUPE remains committed to supporting public officers through upskilling initiatives, career development opportunities, and resources to embrace digital transformation.

Mr Kamsani, Senior Technical Executive from Temasek Polytechnic, shared, “With new technologies, work processes have been improved tremendously and effectively, allowing us to meet stakeholders' needs in a timely manner."

“My organization provides all the necessary training for both professional and personal development, and AUPE also provides additional cost relief through the Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP) to support public officers in their learning. I feel that providing service should be a way of life in all that we do, and that is what defines our public service."

Ms Kausalyah, AUPE’s 2024 G Kandasamy Scholar, who is currently working at a statutory board, echoed the same sentiments.

"My company places a strong emphasis on upskilling and innovation, providing training and workshops for lifelong learning. Motivated to stay competitive and set an example for my daughter, I pursued further education.

“AUPE’s G Kandasamy scholarship was not just financial support; it was also a confidence in my potential. This inspired me to push through challenges and excel in my studies. The union’s commitment to empowering members through education reflects their forward-thinking approach to uplifting the workforce.”

The people behind the success

This achievement is more than just a prestigious title; it embodies the everyday dedication and efforts of public officers across all levels.

This recognition of Singapore's public service is ultimately a celebration of the officers’ unwavering commitment, adaptability, and pursuit of excellence, but sustaining this excellence requires a collective effort.

By continuing to prioritize the well-being of public officers and investing in their growth and development, the Singapore government can ensure that the nation’s public service remains a global benchmark for excellence in the years ahead.

AUPE is committed to working with the Public Service Division (PSD) and public agencies to champion fair remuneration, cultivate supportive workplaces, and promote continuous learning opportunities that empower public officers.