Strategic Human Resource Management Practices and Faculty Effectiveness in Indian Higher Education Institutions: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Human Resource Management (HRM) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality, effectiveness, and sustainability of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The present study investigates the relationship between Human Resource Management (HRM) practices, faculty job satisfaction, and faculty motivation in selected Higher Education Institutions in South West Delhi, India. A mixed-method research design was adopted to obtain both quantitative and qualitative evidence. The study employed purposive sampling and included 60 respondents, comprising 50 faculty members, 5 HR administrators, and 5 academic leaders from five selected Higher Education Institutions. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and regression analysis, while qualitative data were interpreted through thematic analysis. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between HRM practices and faculty job satisfaction (r = 0.61), indicating that transparent recruitment procedures, professional development opportunities, fair performance appraisal systems, recognition mechanisms, and supportive work environments contribute to higher levels of faculty satisfaction. The study also identified a strong positive relationship between HRM practices and faculty motivation (r = 0.68), with regression analysis showing that HRM practices explained 46% of the variance in faculty motivation. Qualitative findings further highlighted that faculty development, recognition, and employee welfare are important contributors to organisational commitment and motivation. The study concludes that strengthening HRM practices can significantly enhance faculty job satisfaction, motivation, and overall institutional effectiveness. It recommends the adoption of transparent HR policies, continuous faculty development programmes, objective performance appraisal systems, effective recognition mechanisms, and HR strategies aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to improve the quality and sustainability of Higher Education Institutions.