Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the Effect of the Adoption of Technology in Accounting Practice on the Public Sector Economy in Cameroon. The independent variables were technological infrastructure, government policies and regulations and skills and training programs. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design to attain these objectives were a sample of 40 respondents in the selected using a convenience sampling technique was used.

The quantitative methods of data collection were used in this work were a self- administered questionnaire composed of closed ended, and likert scale questions was used to collect data from the respondents. Data obtained through a structured questionnaire were analysed using descriptive statistics and the multiple regression analysis (Ordinary Least Square Regression Technique) with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. the findings revealed that Skills and Training Programs has a positive effect on Public Sector Economy.

This implies that a unit increase in Skills and Training Programs will lead to 0.320 increases in Public Sector Economy. The study concluded that Technological Infrastructure, Government Policies and Regulations and Skills and Training Programs have an effect on Public Sector Economy to an extent and thus a perfect predictor of Public Sector Economy in Cameroon.

The study therefore recommends that, effective adoption of technology in accounting practice should be put in place in the institutions so as to increase the Public Sector Economy.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The adoption of technology in the practice of accounting within the public sector economy is a crucial area of research, particularly in developing countries such as Cameroon. As the global economy becomes increasingly digitalized, the use of technology in accounting processes has the potential to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the management of public funds. However, the extent to which technology is adopted and integrated into accounting practices within the public sector in Cameroon remains relatively underexplored (Hopper, T., 1994)

Cameroon, like many other developing countries, faces challenges related to outdated accounting systems, manual processes, and limited technological infrastructure in its public sector institutions. These challenges can hinder the effective management of financial resources, increase the risk of fraud and mismanagement, and impede economic development efforts.

Therefore, understanding the factors influencing the adoption of technology in accounting practices within the public sector in Cameroon is essential for informing policy decisions and driving meaningful reforms. As Cameroon strives to achieve its development goals outlined in the Vision 2035 agenda and the National ICT Strategic Plan, the role of technology in modernizing accounting practices cannot be overstated.

However, the success of these initiatives hinges on the effective adoption and utilization of technology within the public sector. As Cameroon continues its journey towards economic transformation and sustainable development, the adoption of technology in accounting practices within the public sector presents both opportunities and challenges.

Harnessing the potential of technology can enhance financial transparency, facilitate efficient resource allocation, and promote good governance. However, the process of technology adoption is complex and influenced by various socio-economic, cultural, and institutional factors.

In light of global trends towards digital transformation and the increasing importance of technology in driving economic development, Cameroon stands at a critical juncture in its efforts to modernize public sector accounting practices. As highlighted by various international reports and assessments (Osman, M. R. 2016), the effective adoption of technology is essential for enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of public financial management.

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on socio-economic dynamics, the urgency of leveraging technology for accounting practices in the public sector has become even more pronounced. Remote working arrangements, the digitization of services, and the need for real-time data analysis underscore the importance of agile and technology-enabled accounting systems.

Agyemang, F. (2018) suggested several factors which influences the adoption of technology in accounting within the public sector economy of Cameroon. These factors include government policies and regulations related to technology use and data management, the availability of financial resources for technology investments, the level of technological infrastructure, and the skills and capacity of accounting professionals to utilize technology effectively. Additionally, cultural attitudes towards innovation and change, as well as the readiness of public sector organizations to embrace technological advancements, may also play a significant role in shaping the adoption process (Agyemang, F., 2018).

This research study seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation in Cameroon by focusing specifically on the adoption of technology in the practice of accounting in in public sector economy in Cameroon. By providing empirical evidence and insights into the determinants, challenges, and potential outcomes of technology adoption, this study aims to inform policy formulation, institutional reforms, and capacity-building initiatives in the realm of public financial management.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The adoption of technology in the practice of accounting within the public sector economy of Cameroon presents a significant challenge amidst the country’s broader efforts towards economic development and governance reform. Despite the potential benefits of technology adoption, including enhanced efficiency, transparency, and accountability in financial management, the extent to which technology is integrated into accounting practices within the public sector remains unclear.

This lack of clarity raises several critical questions that warrant investigation. As Cameroon strives to achieve its development goals outlined in the Vision 2035 agenda and the National ICT Strategic Plan, the role of technology in modernizing accounting practices cannot be overstated. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on the effective adoption and utilization of technology within the public sector.

By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing technology adoption in accounting practices, this research project aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen financial management, improve governance, and foster sustainable economic development in Cameroon.

Also, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with the adoption of technology in the practice of accounting within the public sector economy of Cameroon. The findings of this study have the potential to inform policy decisions, institutional reforms, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at promoting digital transformation and sustainable development in Cameroon’s public sector.

1.3 Research Questions

1.3.1 Main Research Questions

What is the effect of the adoption of technology in accounting practice on the public sector economy in Cameroon?

1.3.2 Specific Research Questions

1. What is the effect of technological infrastructure for the adoption of technology in accounting practice on the public sector economy in Cameroon?
2. What are the government policies and regulations for the adoption of technology in accounting practice in the public sector economy in Cameroon?
3. What are the skills and training programs for the adoption of technology in accounting practice in the public sector economy in Cameroon?

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