Youth leaders programme considers new global trends in governmental performance management

Held 6-7 January 2008, the 2-day course, targeting young leaders enrolled in the programme, offered attendees an opportunity to engage in discussion with Drs. Steven Kelman and Shelley H. Metzenbaum, both visiting professors from Harvard University.

Dr. Kelman is the Weatherhead Professor of Public Management at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. Lecturing an introductory course on Performance Measurement and Management, Dr. Kelman discussed the growth of performance measurement as a global "mega-trend" in public management and compared the old-fashioned trend of accountability by external bodies vs. the internal endeavor to enhance the performance by the managers actually leading the performance.

"This type of course and discussion offers the participants a good opportunity to get insight into the 'mega-trends' in public management globally, and from the perspective and experience of figures recognized for their work and knowledge as professionals in the field," said Adel Al Shared, Director of Mohammed Bin Rashid Programme for Leadership Development.

He added: "This course comes within the continued training courses educational programmes organized by Mohammed Bin Rashid Programme to give all participants an overview on best methodologies and practices of leadership and management.

"'Performance Management' is the logical continuation of previous offerings of the MBR Programme for Leadership Development, designed to provide the participants with all perspectives necessary to develop their vocational and performance and henceforth help them become excellent leaders."

Al Shared emphasized the importance of the session saying, "The contribution of two key figures like Drs. Kelman and Metzenbaum is a great opportunity for MBR Programme participants to enhance their skills and achieve the targets of this pioneering and ambitious programme."