The government has issued a series of urgent directives mandating that all civil servants be present in their offices daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:40 a.m. This step is aimed at improving administrative efficiency, enhancing inter-departmental coordination, and ensuring that citizens receive timely services. The instructions were formally communicated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, underlining the importance of compliance.
A notice signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Mosa Tania Ferdous on Thursday, 2 April, emphasised that adherence to these directives is critical. The communication highlighted that certain guidelines, particularly concerning office discipline and energy conservation, had not been fully observed and requested renewed commitment from all staff.
The directives include a combination of attendance, energy-saving, and workplace hygiene measures, summarised below:
| Area of Directive | Key Instructions |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Presence | Civil servants must remain in their office from 9:00 a.m. to 9:40 a.m. each day. All official activities during this period should proceed without disruption. |
| Energy Efficiency | Use natural daylight wherever possible. Lights, fans, and air conditioning units should only be used when necessary. Air conditioners must be set at 25°C or higher. |
| Equipment Management | Turn off all electrical equipment—including lights, fans, computers, printers, scanners, and air conditioners—when leaving the office or after working hours. Avoid decorative lighting unless approved by the authorities. |
| Cleanliness and Hygiene | Maintain cleanliness of office rooms, corridors, staircases, handrails, and washrooms. Regular cleaning routines must be followed diligently. |
| Monitoring Compliance | Departments and offices must establish vigilance teams to oversee adherence to all directives and report any lapses promptly. |
The notice specifically advises staff to plan their official schedules so that the 9:00–9:40 a.m. presence requirement is not disrupted. It also stresses the need for responsible behaviour in energy and resource usage throughout the day.
The government views these measures as part of a broader effort to modernise administrative operations, instil disciplined work practices, and promote sustainable, responsible use of office resources. Strict compliance will not only improve operational efficiency but also demonstrate accountability and a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
By implementing these directives, the administration seeks to ensure that government offices function smoothly, remain cost-effective, and provide high-quality service to the public.