Volume 3 Issue 1 | 2026 | View PDF
Paper Id:IJMSM-V3I1P131
doi: 10.71141/30485037/V3I1P131

Analysis of Merit-Based Recruitment System in Public Institutions: A Case Study of the National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT) Timor-Leste

Augusto da Conceição Soares, José Cornélio Guterres, Maria Elsa Diogo Correia, Calistro Maria Correia

Citation:
Augusto da Conceição Soares, José Cornélio Guterres, Maria Elsa Diogo Correia, Calistro Maria Correia, "Analysis of Merit-Based Recruitment System in Public Institutions: A Case Study of the National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT) Timor-Leste" International Journal of Multidisciplinary on Science and Management, Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 320-331, 2026.

Abstract:
This study evaluates the merit-based recruitment system at the National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT) in Timor-Leste during the 2024 fiscal year. Using a descriptive-qualitative approach and a case study analysis of the 88-page Relatóriu Final Rekrutamentu AAP , the research examines the transformation of a pool of 443 initial applicants into a highly specialized technical workforce of 6 elite agents. The methodology followed a rigorous "competency funnel"grounded in Decree-Law No. 22/2011 , utilizing a three-stage filtering process: Administrative Screening, Technical Examination, and Professional Interview, with a mandatory passing grade of 60/100. Key findings reveal a significant 1.3% acceptance rate, reflecting uncompromising professional standards. A critical 66% disqualification rate was identified in the initial phase due to deficiencies in "Administrative Literacy,"highlighting a gap between academic qualifications and procedural compliance. Furthermore, despite the absence of a quota system, female candidates secured 66.6% (4 out of 6) of the final positions. This demonstrates that a transparent "Transparency Shield" overseen by the Civil Service Commission (KFP) naturally fosters gender inclusivity. The study concludes that the INCT recruitment model, aligned with the leadership framework of Soares (2025) , serves as a comprehensive model for public administration reform and state-building in Timor-Leste.

Keywords: Public Administration, Meritocracy, Strategic Leadership, Gender Equality, Administrative Literacy, INCT, Timor-Leste.

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