Filling positions in Namibia's public sector remains fiercely competitive, with significant delays in hiring new graduates.
Recent statistics indicate that the Public Service Commission's adherence to merit-based appointments often extends recruitment timelines, affecting timely employment opportunities for new graduates.
This competitive landscape is compounded by a growing pool of unemployed young people seeking entry into the public sector.
Positions frequently circulate among existing employees through transfers or applications for transfers.
While intended to facilitate career mobility and skill development among public servants, it inadvertently limits entry-level opportunities for graduates.
Namibian labour market reports indicate that internal mobility often favours experienced employees already familiar with bureaucratic procedures and internal networks, giving them preferred access to entry-level positions.
Critics argue that this perpetuates a cycle whereby incumbents' interests outweigh the potential of new entrants to inject fresh perspectives and skills into the public sector.
This situation not only restricts opportunities for graduates, but affects economic mobility.
Impact on youth
The competition between experienced public servants and new graduates for entry-level positions restricts opportunities for young job seekers who lack experience and tenure within the public sector.
Some critics contend that current recruitment practices don't adequately address the aspirations and needs of young people entering the job market.
This indicates the need for more equitable recruitment practices that prioritise merit and potential over tenure alone.
Advocates of reform suggest revising recruitment criteria to promote diversity and equitable representation within the public sector.
They propose implementing quotas or preferential treatment for new graduates in sectors or departments experiencing high turnover rates to ensure accessibility to entry-level positions.
Another proposal is that the Office of the Prime Minister and the Public Service Commission should issue directives prioritising qualified unemployed youth for entry-level posts.
Directives could include streamlining recruitment processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring accessibility of entry-level positions to all qualified applicants.
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Advocates of this approach believe it could help harness the potential of Namibia's youth in driving innovation and growth
Other suggestions include limiting public employees seeking transfers to promotional positions or cross-transfers.
Critics contend that while internal mobility is essential for skill development and organisational flexibility, it should not disadvantage new entrants to the workforce.
They believe reforming transfer policies to prioritise external recruitment for entry-level positions would ensure a dynamic public sector while providing fair opportunities for all job seekers.
They also emphasise balancing the needs of existing employees with providing fair opportunities for new entrants.
Further, those reforms should uphold principles of fairness, transparency and meritocracy to reflect the aspirations of the broader population.
Addressing these challenges comprehensively would foster a more inclusive and responsive public sector.
* Gideon Kapuka is a researcher, writer and business consultant; gideonkapuka5@gmail.com
