Motivational Strategies and Employee Retention in Vocational Training Institutions in Uganda: A case of Nile Vocational Institute, Njeru

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between motivation and employee retention in Vocational Training Institutions in Uganda: A Case of NVI, Njeru. The objectives of the study were to establish the relationship between rewards and employee retention; investigate the relationship between the working environment and employee retention; establish the relationship between career development and employee retention in NVI, Njeru. Reward system, working environment and career development opportunities characterized motivation (Independent Variable) while employee intention to leave and turnover characterized employee retention (Dependent Variable). Relevant textbooks, reports and minutes were reviewed. The study adopted a descriptive research design and employed qualitative and quantitative approaches of research. Data were collected from a sample of 97 respondents using self-administered questionnaires and key informant interviews. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), frequency counts and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were produced. The study revealed that there was significant strong relationship between rewards (r = 0.489), working environment (r = 0.687) and employee retention; there was a negative weak relationship between career development opportunities (r -0.016) and employee retention. The study concluded that: Rewards and Working environment greatly affect employee retention while employee retention was less dependent on career development opportunities in NVI, Njeru. The researcher recommends that: the reward system should be made more competitive and attractive to enhance employee retention; variety of motivation strategies on recognition, rewards, and career growth opportunities ought to be adopted and made clear to all employees and good working environment should be established in NVI, Njeru.