THE Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has opened a three-day legal workshop to equip its legal officers with advanced skills in public contract management.

Organised by the Service’s Legal, Research and Monitoring Direc­torate, the programme seeks to strengthen institutional capacity, promote accountability, and ensure compliance with procurement laws.

Held under the theme: ‘Enhanc­ing Expertise in Public Contract Management,’ it has brought together legal officers from across the country to share ideas and explore emerging trends.

Opening the event, Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of the Interior, Mrs Doreen P. Annan, commended GIS for prioritising professional development, noting that effective contract management safeguards public resources and promotes transparency.

She stressed that the growing complexity of procurement makes continuous training essential.

Comptroller-General of Immi­gration, Mr Samuel Basintale Ama­du, described legal officers as key actors in negotiations and agree­ments central to GIS operations.

He said the training would cover contract management, legal and financial compliance, drafting and negotiation techniques, procure­ment laws, risk assessment, and alternative dispute resolution.

The Solicitor-General, Mrs Helen A. Aziwu, stated that the sessions would be led by experts using practical case studies and interactive discussions.

She explained that improved capacity would help officers de­tect risks, reduce litigation, and ensure value for money.

“When our officers are well-trained, the entire Service bene­fits. We strengthen compliance, improve efficiency, and reduce financial losses,” she noted.

Some participants expressed optimism that the knowledge gained would enhance contract management at regional and district levels.

The workshop is expected to reinforce GIS’s legal framework, boost operational efficiency, and align the service with best practices in public contract management.

 BY BENEDICTA GYIMAAH FOLLEY AND PRINCE ADDO FRIMPONG