Translating policy goals into programs is perhaps the most challenging part of government. Many a government minister has big ideas, not many of them see those ideas implemented during their often limited time in office. One reason is the gap between the political leadership in most government ministries and the professional civil service. Technically the minister is both political leader and chief operating officer, but in reality, the civil service generally see ministers as sojourners with bright ideas who come and go, while they keep the government running. Bridging the gap between political leadership and ministry officials is one of the objectives of the In-Country Follow-up Component of the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program.
