Digital Transformation in Public Education: Assessing the Impact of E-Recruitment on Organizational Efficiency at Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (2015-2026)

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive assessment of the adoption and impact of e-recruitment on the organizational efficiency of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) from 2015 to 2026. In response to systemic challenges in teacher recruitment and deployment, Benue SUBEB implemented digital systems to streamline its hiring processes. The study specifically improved administrative efficiency, quality and reach of the teacher, infrastructural and digital realities as it effects efficiency at Benue SUBEB. A Qualitative and Quantitative survey design was used for the study; a total number of 377 staff of Benue SUBEB from the administrative and human resource staff, ICT personnel and teachers recruited through the e-recruitment platform during the study period. A structural questionnaire was used as a major instrument for data collection and the aid of statistical package for social science (SPSS 21) was used for data analysis. Regression analysis was used in testing the hypotheses formulated in the study at 0.05 level of significance. The study is underpinned by Technological Context Theory (TOE). The findings reveal that e-recruitment has significantly improved administrative efficiency, transparency, and the speed of hiring. However, a critical gap persists between efficient recruitment and effective deployment, as infrastructural deficits in schools undermine the full realization of educational outcomes. The study concludes that while e-recruitment is a necessary digital transformation, it is not a sufficient condition for organizational effectiveness. It recommends a holistic digital strategy that integrates recruitment with skills development, digital infrastructure investment, and robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) to bridge the implementation gap and achieve the core mandate of quality basic education in Benue State.