Influence of talent retention strategies on academic performance of lecturers at Rongo University, Kenya

Abstract

Despite having human resource policy and procedure manual to guide and govern retention of talents, Rongo University is still having challenges related to employee performance. In 2018, Rongo University was cited as one of the universities that were faced with the challenge of meeting their staff’s basic salary needs, payment of NHIF and NSSF. This study therefore sought to investigate the influence of strategic talent management practices on academic performance of lecturers at Rongo University. To the management of Rongo University, the study provides relevant information to develop strategies in an effort to improve lecturers’ academic performance. To the policy makers, the study provides information that can be used in formulation of laws and policies that enhance talent management strategies. The study adds more information to the body of knowledge on talent retention strategies and performance of lecturers. The study used a descriptive research design. The target population of this study was 102 academic staff at Rongo University: graduate assistants, tutorial fellows, assistant lecturers, lecturers, senior lecturers, associate professors and professors. The sample size was 82 staff who were selected by use of stratified random sampling. The research made use of primary data together with secondary data. The secondary data source was the annual reports and policies from Rongo University while primary data was gathered through use of semi-structured questionnaires. Thematic analysis was deployed in analyzing qualitative data then presentation of results were in a narrative form. Through the help of SPSS (version 22) quantitative data was analyzed through use of descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The research used descriptive statistics in determining mean, frequency distribution and percentage. Inferential statistics comprised of correlation analysis as well as multivariate regression analysis. The research results were presented in tables, bar charts and pie charts. The study established that talent retention strategies have a positive and significant effect on academic performance of lecturers at Rongo University (p-value=0.000). This study recommends that Rongo University should seek to provide remuneration and allowances that match their competitors in the same region so as to attract and retain talented academic staff. A promotion policy to guide promotion of academic staff in the institution based on their superior qualities that boost academic performance. In addition, the university should ensure the implementation of policies. The study IRJSEH ISSN 2710-2742 (online), www.irjp.org Page 33 found that there is a poor work environment in Rongo University while competitors were having better working conditions.