Exploring the impact of social responsibility on staff engagement in Ghanaian Universities:

Abstract

Ghanaian universities have embraced a corporate identity and are actively participating in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which is referred to as University Social Responsibility (USR). The purpose of this is to enhance the perception of identification (organisational identity) and promote employee involvement. This research examines the effect of University Social Responsibility (USR) on the level of involvement and commitment of staff members in Ghanaian institutions. It also proposes that the sense of identity plays a role in mediating the relationship between USR and staff engagement. This study utilised a cross-sectional survey methodology. The poll utilised a two-stage multi-stage sampling procedure to choose 412 participants. The survey utilised a validated questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale. The questionnaire had a Cronbach's alpha coefficient (?) greater than 0.70. The data acquired from this questionnaire was customised for the survey. The data collected were configured and subjected to Structural Equation Modelling for analysis at a significance level of p<.05 using the SMART pls software. The findings indicate that identification perception does not significantly and directly predict the mediation effect of internal CSR on employee engagement (beta=0.008; t<1.96; p=0.439: p>0.05), and external CSR on employee engagement (beta=0.002; t<1.96; p=0.443: p>0.05) in the surveyed Ghanaian universities. The study concluded that the impression of identification did not operate as a mediator in the predicted association between the internal and external corporate social responsibility activities of the universities and employee engagement. According to the findings and conclusion, Ghanaian universities should take into account several elements and adopt a comprehensive approach when aiming to enhance employee job engagement. It is important not to exclusively concentrate on employee identification with the institution. It is advisable for the administration of Ghanaian institutions to develop efficient employee-focused engagement strategies and activities, both internally and externally, to boost the welfare of their workers, promote a sense of belonging, and improve overall performance.