DIGITALIZATION OF THE RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF ACADEMIC STAFF OF COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Digitalization has significantly transformed various sectors worldwide, and the educational sector in Nigeria is no exception. This study explored the impact of digitalization on the recruitment and selection processes for academic staff in Nigerian Colleges of Education. Historically, these processes were manual and paper-based, involving face-to-face interactions and physical advertisements. However, with the advent of digital technologies, such as online job portals, electronic applications, and advanced data analytics, there has been a notable shift towards digitalization. This transition promises increased efficiency, broader reach, and improved accuracy in candidate assessment. The study adopted a qualitative approach, utilizing secondary data sources, including academic journals, government documents, and relevant publications. Theoretical insights from the Diffusion of Innovations theory were used to understand the stages of digital adoption and its challenges. Key findings showed that while digitalization offers numerous benefits, such as streamlined application processing and enhanced candidate screening through AI. The included limited technological infrastructure, disparities in digital access, data privacy concerns, and the need for digital literacy among staff and candidates.  To enhance digital recruitment, Colleges of Education should expand job postings to digital platforms, adopt application management systems, integrate automated screening tools, and invest in virtual interview infrastructure. Additionally, electronic onboarding systems can streamline hiring and improve new staff integration. This paper suggests that Colleges of Education should expand their recruitment and selection, strategies to include digital platform such as job boards, social media and professional methods.