A recent government data revealed that a record 177 national civil servants in career-track positions resigned in fiscal 2022, less than 10 years after being hired, citing concerns about long working hours and insufficient pay as influencing factors. This figure surpasses the previous high of 168 resignations in fiscal 2021, highlighting a trend that has been on the rise since 2012 when the current examination format for bureaucrats was introduced.
The increase in resignations comes at a time when there is a decrease in the number of applicants for government jobs, with stiff competition from the private sector for talent. Only 13,599 candidates took the examinations to become career-track bureaucrats this year, a record-low number, with 1,953 passing.
To address this issue, the government is taking steps to retain these potential future high-ranking officials. A recent poll by the National Personnel Authority found that many first-year career-track bureaucrats believe hiking wages and implementing measures to reduce overtime and late-night work are crucial for improving the image of public servants and attracting talent.
It is evident that reforming working practices and addressing concerns about working conditions are key to retaining and attracting skilled individuals to serve in public service roles.
© KYODO
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