Competency tests in the selection of research scientists in Agri-based research organizations in Kenya

Abstract

The performance of agri-based research organisations can generally be confirmed by the resultant agricultural break through reflected and evidenced by the improved living standards of the majority of farming community. The major agricultural achievements in the use of natural resources, new technologies and improved farming methods new varieties and new knowledge is largely a reflection of the quality and commitment of scientists. This scenario presents serious challenges to Agri-based research organisation in respect to their contribution which must catalyse agricultural growth. In view of this argument the organizations in this sector must be fully committed to taking strategic approach to recruitment and selection process to realize their objectives. The use of the structured interviews by these organizations has been construed to mean competency testing and this confirms that the use competency testing is new. Competency testing which has high predictive value has not taken root to compliment other selection methods in determining the capability and capacity of the potential job applicants. The capacity to administer the competency testing is lacking and the use of conventional interview is still common. The conventional use of interview has some element of testing and it provides an opportunity for the interviewing panel to physically evaluate the candidate's presentation. The results of research activities takes considerable period of time to realize as some of crops are perennial and monitoring performance must be consistent to arrive at any meaningful conclusion. Projects may be conceived and designed by one scientist or more but it requires a team of more researchers and support personnel to drive the process. Implementation and realization of results after research process can be linked to capacity and competency of the scientists who undertake research activities. However, the length of time taken to realize research results can be shortened if the teams of scientist are carefully selected during recruitment and employment process