What policies, if any, does the Ministry of Education have to protect the political neutrality of the Ministry and its staff and which, if any, of those policies prevent staff from discussing their political associations in public while representing the Ministry?

Answer

The Ministry of Education (the Ministry) is required to uphold political neutrality under the Public Service Act 2020 and Public Service Commission standards. This is supported through internal policies, including the Code of Conduct and conflict of interest processes. Outside of work, employees are free to engage in political activities. However, they must ensure their personal views remain separate from their official role and take proactive steps to identify and manage any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.