Managerial skills and organisational performance in government ministries: a case of ministry of works and transport Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the influence of managerial skills on organisational performance in government ministries using Ministry of Works and Transport as a case study. The study was motivated by the low organisational performance demonstrated in terms of low efficiency and effectiveness. In this study, managerial skills were independent variable measured using technical, conceptual and interpersonal skills. Organisational efficiency was the dependent variable measured by its efficiency and effectiveness. The study objectives were to analyse the influence of technical skills on organisational performance: examine the influence of conceptual skills on organisational performance and to assess the influence of interpersonal skills on organisational performance at Ministry of Works and Transport. A case study design utilizing mixed methods approach was adopted. A total of 91 participants were engaged, selected by simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires and interviews were used for data collection. Findings show there is a strong positive relationship between technical skills and organisational performance (r= .885, beta= .367, p<.05): conceptual skills and organisational performance (r= .780. beta= .367, p<.05) and between interpersonal skills and organisational performance (r= .804, beta= .113, p<.05). Overall, managerial skills predicted 82.9% of organisational performance at the Ministry. All the null hypotheses were rejected, and it was concluded that managerial skills present a strong influence on organisational performance of government ministries. Major recommendations included supporting management with managerial skills through more workshops, conferences, seminars, capacity building, and field excursions. Management need also to doe job enrichment, team building, and put in place managerial meetings, manage.rs ' online platform and trainings. There is also need to encourage a two-way communication approach. Further research should also be done managerial skills and organisational performance in other Ministries. Departments and Agencies in Uganda, and as a comparative study with other countries.