Accountability in Education : What Works? - Case Studies from Simbu : Case Study 5 - Upholding Merit-based Appointments

Overview & Synopsis

Merit-based appointments are regarded by education stakeholders in Simbu as vital to the strength of the education system in the province. This case study briefly explains the importance of merit-based appointments, promotions and dismissals to the effectiveness of public administration, and the contrasting adverse effects of nepotistic-based human resource decisions, before describing how meritocracy has been promoted and upheld in Simbu. It also explores some of the vulnerabilities and challenges of meritocracy in Simbu, and highlights the wider implications of Simbu’s experience. Unless indicated otherwise, the quotations included are from interviews with past and present senior officials and education stakeholders in Simbu.