By Burnett Munthali
Bright Limani, a Human Resources (HR) lecturer at the Catholic University of Malawi (CUNIMA), has emphasized the importance of objectivity in evaluating employee performance during his address at the start of a two-day workshop on strategic management of performance and discipline.
The workshop, which is being held at the National Bank Training Centre in Blantyre, has drawn HR professionals and managers from various sectors.
Limani highlighted the critical role HR professionals play in ensuring that staff assessments are carried out with fairness and impartiality.
“It is very important for HR professionals to be objective and fair when assessing staff performance,” Limani said.
He stressed that biases or personal preferences should not influence the evaluation process, as it can lead to unfair treatment and a negative work environment.
The workshop, organized by CUNIMA in collaboration with the Institute for People Management Malawi (IPMM), is designed to equip HR practitioners with practical tools for effectively managing performance and maintaining discipline within organizations.
Limani’s message resonated with many attendees, as the practice of objective and transparent evaluations is often cited as a challenge in many workplaces.
One of the participants, Austin Sukani from Wilcans Technology, expressed his gratitude for the insights he gained from the workshop.
Sukani described the event as an eye-opener, noting that he had learned several strategies and techniques that he intends to implement in his own professional practice.
According to Sukani, the workshop provided practical guidance on how to handle performance-related issues while maintaining fairness and promoting employee growth.
He believes that the new knowledge will help him better manage his team and contribute to the overall success of his company.
The collaboration between CUNIMA and IPMM in organizing this event reflects their shared commitment to enhancing the skills and expertise of HR professionals in Malawi.
The workshop covers a range of topics including effective performance management systems, strategies for addressing discipline issues, and how to align organizational goals with employee development.
As the workshop continues, attendees are expected to engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises aimed at improving HR practices in their respective organizations.
In a rapidly changing business environment, the need for HR professionals to stay informed and adapt to new trends and best practices has never been more critical.
For many, this workshop is a valuable opportunity to build their capacity to address the complex challenges they face in managing employee performance.
The insights gained will not only enhance individual HR practices but also contribute to fostering more productive, equitable, and supportive workplaces across the country.