Strategies for Retaining Academic Staff in Faith-Based Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

This study explored academic staff retention strategies in Church-founded higher education institutions (CFHEIs) in Uganda, recognizing the importance of sustaining human capital for institutional performance. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were collected from 48 academic staff- professors, lecturers, and teaching assistants—through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. The findings revealed that CFHEIs utilize a multidimensional retention framework grounded in intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. Key strategies include clear career paths and transparent promotion criteria, which motivate staff by fostering merit-based advancement and recognition. Competitive salary structures and comprehensive benefits, such as housing allowances, pension schemes, and health insurance, were recognized as essential hygiene factors that prevent dissatisfaction and enhance institutional loyalty. Additionally, performance-based incentives, including bonuses for research output and grants, were highlighted as effective motivators reinforcing a culture of excellence and achievement. The study also identified the value of financial and institutional support for advanced studies, such as partial scholarships, sabbatical leave, and flexible work arrangements, in strengthening staff commitment. Furthermore, continuous learning and specialized training programs, particularly those tailored to departmental needs and delivered by external experts, were found to significantly enhance professional development and retention. Despite these positive practices, participants reported challenges of equity, transparency, and implementation consistency, especially in the distribution of scholarships, the responsiveness of salary adjustments to inflation, and the inclusiveness of incentive systems across disciplines. The study concludes that CFHEIs have developed a robust and context-sensitive approach to academic staff retention. However, to maximize impact, it is recommended that institutions improve equitable access to professional development and financial support, enhance transparency in promotion and recognition, and ensure the alignment of incentive structures with staff needs. Future research should examine leadership roles in policy execution and compare retention practices across institutional types.