Cameroon Introduces New Bonuses for Researchers to Boost Innovation

This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to recognize and support the vital role that researchers play in national development.

The newly introduced bonuses—specifically the research bonus and the technical bonus—reflect a revaluation of remuneration for research staff. Under the new scheme, the research bonus, which is paid monthly, is tiered according to the grade of the researcher:

• Research Directors: 140,000 FCFA
• Research Supervisors: 130,000 FCFA
• Research Officers: 110,000 FCFA
• Research Associates: 90,000 FCFA

Similarly, the technical bonus, also paid monthly, is structured as follows:

• Research Directors: 50,000 FCFA
• Masters and Research Supervisors: 40,000 FCFA
• Research Associates: 30,000 FCFA

This decree follows an earlier legislative effort on August 8, 2023, which marked a pivotal moment in the professional landscape for researchers by granting them a special status. This new status, outlined in a comprehensive text of 57 articles, modernized a regulatory framework that had remained largely unchanged since 1980. It detailed crucial processes regarding the recruitment, advancement, and evaluation of researchers, positioning them for a more prominent role in the nation’s development agenda.

According to the recent decree, a researcher is defined as a “natural person working on the design or creation of new knowledge, products, methods, or systems based on scientific programming, contributing to the resolution of problems and the development of humanity.” This definition underscores the critical importance of research in addressing contemporary challenges and fostering innovation.

Addressing Long-Standing Expectations

The revaluation of bonuses is a response to the long-standing aspirations of the Cameroonian scientific community. Researchers have expressed the need for improved compensation and recognition of their contributions to society, and this decree aims to stimulate innovation and elevate the research landscape in the country.

Moreover, the decision to repeal previous provisions, particularly those established in the 1980 decree, signals a commitment to modernizing the status of researchers and ensuring that their remuneration aligns with contemporary standards. This modernization is expected to encourage greater investment in research initiatives and attract talent within the scientific community.

A Step Towards National Development

As Cameroon strives to enhance its scientific and technological capabilities, this new remuneration system is poised to play a crucial role in fostering an environment conducive to research and innovation. By recognizing the importance of researchers and providing them with the necessary support, the government aims to leverage scientific advancements to drive national development.

The positive reception of this decree among researchers indicates a shared optimism about the future of research in Cameroon. It represents a critical step in acknowledging the essential contributions of the scientific community to the nation’s progress and a commitment to nurturing talent that can address pressing societal challenges.