Work environment and performance of Makerere University academic staff in the post COVID-19 period

Abstract

The study titled "Work Environment and Performance of Makerere University Academic Staff in the Post COVID-19 Period" is a comprehensive examination of the effects of the pandemic on the academic staff at Makerere University. Based on secondary data, the study focuses on three key themes: the impact of the altered work environment on performance, the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that have emerged, and the specific challenges faced by the university's academic staff. By adopting the theory of adaptability, this study provides valuable insights into how the post-pandemic work environment has influenced the performance and well-being of the academic staff at Makerere University. Through an analysis of these supporting points, a clearer understanding of the unique circumstances and experiences of the university's academic staff can be gained. This study found out that the altered work environment has had a significant impact on the performance of academic staff at Makerere University. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced institutions of higher education, including Makerere University, to adopt remote teaching and learning methods. This sudden shift to online platforms has presented numerous challenges for academic staff, affecting their performance. One of the key challenges identified is the lack of adequate technological infrastructure. Many staff members reported difficulties in accessing reliable internet connections and appropriate devices, hindering their ability to effectively deliver online classes and engage with students. Moreover, the altered work environment has disrupted the traditional modes of collaboration and interaction among staff members, leading to decreased morale and job satisfaction. The absence of face-to-face interactions and informal discussions has affected the exchange of ideas and intellectual stimulation, which are vital for academic staff's professional growth and research productivity. Consequently, the altered work environment has not only posed technical challenges but has also had psychological implications for academic staff at Makerere University. The post-pandemic work environment presents multifaceted challenges and opportunities for academic staff at Makerere University. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted traditional modes of teaching and learning, forcing institutions to adapt and embrace new technologies and approaches. This transition to online and hybrid modes of instruction has posed challenges for academic staff in terms of technological literacy and pedagogical transformation. Additionally, the pandemic has resulted in increased workloads as faculty members have had to quickly adapt their courses to remote formats, develop new instructional materials, and provide ongoing support to students in virtual environments. Moreover, the shift to remote work has blurred the boundaries between personal and professional life, leading to increased stress and burnout among academic staff. Therefore, this research contributes to the broader discourse on the nexus between work environment and performance in the post-COVID-19 era, offering practical implications for academic institutions seeking to enhance the adaptability and performance of their staff in the face of ongoing global challenges.