The applicability of Herzberg's two-factor theory on the junior non-academic staff of Makerere University

Abstract

This study was conducted to establish the relationship between the remuneration and motivation of junior non-academic staff of Makerere University (Mak.). Basic salary and allowances characterised remuneration. The study particularly sought to establish whether remuneration or pay is a mere hygiene factor or a satisfier among the junior non-academic staff of Mak. This was done to assess the extent to which Herzberg's acclaimed research findings have application in Uganda and for the junior non-academic staff of Mak. in particular. The study was conducted by cross-sectional survey, data being collected in July 2003, from a stratified sample of 267 respondents selected from the target population, using questionnaire and survey interview techniques. The data was analysed using frequency and percentage distribution as well as chi-square statistics. The study established that the junior non-academic staff at Mak. is not highly motivated despite the presence of high levels of Herzberg's satisfiers such as promotion and recognition in the University. It also established that pay in terms of allowances has a positive influence on the level of motivation of the junior non-academic staff of the university. The study concludes that remuneration - basic salary and allowances - are motivators and not just dissatisfiers as stated by Herzberg for the case of the junior non-academic staff. It recommends that the management of the University should improve the remuneration of their employees to stimulate (motivate) the staff in their jobs wherefore the University stands to gain.

Makerere Journal of Higher Education Vol. 1, 2004: 143-152