Meritocracy in the Placement of State Civil Apparatus: An Analysis of the Alignment Between Academic Achievement and Positions in the Gorontalo Regency Government

Abstract

The placement of State Civil Apparatus (ASN) is a crucial component of civil service human resource management, as it determines the alignment between an employee's competencies and the duties and responsibilities of their assigned position. One key aspect to consider in ASN placement is academic achievement, which can serve as a basis for ensuring that employees possess a knowledge background relevant to the positions they hold. This study aims to analyze the alignment between academic achievement and ASN placement within the Gorontalo Regency Government from a meritocratic perspective. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing data collection techniques such as observation, interviews, and document analysis. Research informants included personnel staff, structural officials, and ASN personnel who had undergone placement or position transfer processes. The analysis utilized academic achievement indicators as outlined by Siswanto (2013) regarding employee placement. The findings indicate that academic achievement has been a factor in ASN placement decisions, particularly through the alignment of education levels and fields of study with position requirements. However, it has not yet served as the sole basis for determining placements. In practice, academic considerations interact with work experience, organizational needs, the availability of personnel resources, and other administrative factors. This situation suggests that the merit principle in ASN placement requires strengthening through competency mapping mechanisms and more objective documentation, ensuring that placement decisions are both administratively and substantively justifiable. This study underscores the importance of academic achievement as a tool for achieving ASN placements that better align with competencies and the needs of the government organization.