In theory, “Meritocracy promotes fairness and equality of opportunity by rewarding individuals based on their efforts and capabilities”.

In my view, meritocracy is about doing things right, thereby making a direct connection to ethical conduct. The promotion of transparency and fairness in treatment in ethical conduct is testament of its proximity to meritocracy.

In organizations, application of the tenets of meritocracy should transcend all structures, processes and behaviors. In attempting to demonstrate the cogency of the relationship between meritocracy and ethical culture, I propose to refer to one of my earlier articles where I referred to a corporate as a juristic person which does not feel, breath or speak as a natural person would. That notwithstanding, the corporate feels, breaths and speaks through its organizational actors who do so in the corporate’s name.

The corporate makes decisions through its actors with the expectation that they act in the best interest of the corporate. The exercise of functions by actors calls for certain standards so that aspects such as quality and diligence are assured.

“It is important to ensure that the systems put in place are genuinely meritocratic and free from biases or barriers that could prevent certain groups from accessing opportunities based on factors beyond their control.”

Corporates are encouraged to establish policies that affirm compliance with meritocratic principles in operations, governance structures and processes which are designed to stand the test of time while providing clarity and peace of mind to actors as they pursue endeavours in that regard.

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