Systèmes d’information et recrutement spécial de 2000 docteurs dans les universités d’état au Cameroun

Abstract

In the digital age, Information Systems (IS) are increasingly used by human resource managers, particularly in recruitment processes. However, their actual impact on the efficiency of these processes remains ambiguous. This study addresses this issue by assessing the effect of IS on recruitment efficiency in the Cameroonian public service, focusing specifically on the first phase of the special recruitment of 2,000 PhD holders to the position of Lecturer, launched during the 2019–2020 academic year. The central question is to what extent IS promote transparency, equity, and performance in the recruitment process of university teachers in public institutions. To address this issue, a mixed-method approach was adopted, combining the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative methods. The methodology relied on a hypothetico-deductive model, incorporating documentary research, direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and statistical analysis. The case study covered the eight public universities involved in the recruitment (Yaoundé I, Yaoundé II, Douala, Dschang, Maroua, Ngaoundéré, Buea, and Bamenda). The target population included administrative officials (MINESUP, MINFOPRA) and teachers recruited before and during the operation. The sample was randomly selected. Data were collected from various sources, including the HESMAS software, CEPE databases, and official government websites. The results show an improvement in the composition of the teaching staff, with a significant increase in the number of Lecturers (ASS) from 15% to 35% between 2017 and 2020, depending on the university, reversing the previous predominance of Associate Professors. This evolution, although variable across institutions, reflects an overall enhancement in academic supervision. The study also highlights the catalytic role of ICTs in streamlining the recruitment process, especially during health crises. However, certain technical limitations related to the use of HESMAS (breakdowns, data duplications) raise questions about its actual effectiveness. It is therefore recommended that MINESUP and other public administrations reinforce the security and performance of information systems to improve the transparency, smoothness, and efficiency of recruitment in higher education.