Relationship between Age Diversity and Employee Performance of Public Universities in Western Kenya

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine relationship between age diversity and employee performance of public universities in Western Kenya. The target population composed of four public universities and the respondents were 120 head of departments. The study adopted a mixed method design and a survey method was used to collect primary data using a questionnaire pretested for validity and reliability. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Out of the 120 questionnaires sent out, 93 questionnaires were received giving a response rate of 78%. Regression and correlation analysis established a statistically significant positive relationship between age diversity and employee performance. The conclusions drawn from the study findings is that age diversity influence employee performance positively and majority of the employees are positive about age diversity practices in public universities. The study then recommended that the management should continue to uphold its age diversity policies and practices in order to increase the benefits of workforce diversity and come up with motivation programs that recognize younger employees in team success. Further research should be carried out on other variables of workforce diversity, test moderating variable on this relationship and a look into other institutions in public and private sectors