Job satisfaction and labour turnover of early career academics at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (Abuad), Nigeria

Abstract

Universities, in Nigeria, both public and private been witnessing an increase in labour turnover especially among early career academics (ECAs) which is considered a major threat to institutional stability, performance and sustainability. . Irrespective of this there is a small but growing research in this area. This study explored the influence of job satisfaction on labour turnover of early career academics at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of the key aspects of job satisfaction namely, remuneration, work environment, staff development, job security and job enlargement on labour turnover intentions of early career academics in ABUAD. . A qualitative approach, guided by interpretivist philosophy, and a phenomenological design was adopted for the study. A non-probability purposive sampling was used to draw a sample size of 43, from a target population of 217. Data were gathered through face-to-face (FTF) interviews and focus group discussions (FGD). The FTF was done with 6 participants, while focus group discussions involved 6 groups with 6 to 7 members. Participants included in this study possessed a minimum of five years of postdoctoral experience and were aged 25-45 years. Thematic analysis was employed and recurring themes, patterns, and meanings relevant to the research objectives were identified. Findings reveal that job satisfaction is strongly linked to timely remuneration, a positive work environment, and opportunities for staff development. Conversely, perceived job insecurity, excessive workload, negative attitudes at work, and rigid institutional policies lower job satisfaction and increase turnover intentions. The study recommended leadership and management buy-in for initiatives relating to academic job satisfaction. Such will help in management in making informed policy decisions, which ultimately would increase academic job satisfaction, improve retention, and productivity.