Human Resource Management: A case study on the shortage of government officers responsible for payroll at the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the factors influencing the shortage of civil servant positions responsible for salary administration at the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The study also aimed to investigate problems, obstacles, and possible solutions, as well as to provide recommendations. Data were collected through structured interviews with five key informants. The findings revealed twelve factors contributing to the shortage of civil servants in salary administration: (1) achievement, (2) recognition, (3) job characteristics, (4) responsibility, (5) career advancement, (6) salary, (7) future promotion opportunities, (8) relationships with supervisors, subordinates, and colleagues, (9) professional status, (10) policies and administration, (11) working conditions, and (12) personal well-being. One factor found not to affect the shortage was job security. The main problems and obstacles identified included the complex and demanding nature of salary administration, high pressure, the need for accuracy and timeliness, a heavy workload, extensive reliance on regulations, and the requirement for high responsibility, skills, and expertise. Furthermore, the absence of specialized human resources positions in the organizational structure hindered career advancement. Recommended solutions include conducting systematic workload analyses by position to ensure appropriate staffing, enhancing both short- and long-term capacity-building programs, encouraging participation in workflow improvement, and allocating resources in alignment with organizational missions.