The research instrument used in this study was a mixed method approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative research techniques to gather comprehensive and informative data on the IT competency needs in the civil service. The research design focused on assessing the importance of IT competency and computer literacy for departmental heads, comparing assertiveness and capability to avoid redundancy in the modern office environment. This was evaluated through the measurement of attitudes and actions, with a structured questionnaire used to collect data. The construction, layout, and content of the questionnaire were guided by the rules of questionnaire design, with an introduction and request for contact included. The measurement scale and corresponding research objectives were clearly stated for each section of the questionnaire.

4.6 DATA COLLECTION PROCEDURE

Data was collected through the administration of the structured questionnaire to a representative sample of civil service employees across different departments and organizations. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, targeting individuals who hold IT-related positions or work extensively with technology in their roles. Both online and offline data collection methods were utilized to reach the targeted population, with follow-up communication used for data verification and validation.

4.7 PROPOSED DATA ANALYSIS

The proposed data analysis approach involves both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The quantitative data collected will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as percentages, means, and standard deviations, to summarize the data. The results will be further tested using inferential statistics, such as regression analysis, to test the significance of relationships between variables and determine the factors affecting IT competency needs in the civil service. The qualitative data collected through open-ended questions will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns and gain deeper insights into the research questions.

The process of collecting data from the 27 Government Ministries and their regional offices across Ghana for this research was a challenging task as obtaining both primary and secondary data is difficult. Thus, an appropriate sampling procedure was employed, in which only Heads of Departments with at least 15-20 years of experience as civil servants were selected. Self-administered questionnaires were utilized, which required respondents to read and answer the questions independently, providing valid data and yielding quick results. These surveys were distributed via email, printed copies handed out in-person, or left at front desk offices. The survey took place over two months, from March 1st, 2022 to April 31st, 2022. Of the 350 questionnaires sent out, 125 completed questionnaires were received via email and 95 were physically collected, while 30 were never returned or responded to. Overall, the response rate was approximately 42%, covering 25% of the Ministries.

In analyzing the respondents' attitudes towards IT competency and ICT savviness as a factor in securing employment, data was examined using the statistical analysis tool of IBM SPSS 2.60. Responses regarding the responsibility of civil servants to train and self-upgrade in IT competency were coded as either Government responsibility (marked Govt.**) or Personal Employee responsibility (marked PER*), and the collated data analyzed is presented in Appendix II.