RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF ACADEMIC STAFF IN GHANA: A CASE STUDY OF TAMALE POLYTECHNIC

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to find out the process of recruitment of teaching staff and the factors that militate against the recruitment and retention of this category of staff in Tamale Polytechnic. The research design considered most appropriate for this study is the descriptive design. This is because it gives an opportunity to the researcher to get the opinion of the population concerning some issues of interest and relevance to the study. A sample size of 28 was used from a total population of 140 HND teaching staff of Tamale Polytechnic for the 2008/2009 academic year. The research instrument used to collect data was a set of questionnaires developed by the researcher. Both closed-ended and open-ended items were included to add up to 37 items and under sub-headings. The responses of the 28 respondents were coded into the SPSS computer programme and analysed under its four sections tables of frequencies and percentages were used to describe, illustrate and explain findings. Key findings included the fact that the HND teaching staff population was predominantly male. Also, only 11 out of the 28 respondents have a second degree. Nearly 80% of the respondents were non-resident staff and they saw the type of accommodation they live in as not suitable. Respondents were not happy with their salary levels, welfare services and allowances. Some suggestions and recommendations on the basis of the findings included the fact that the polytechnic management ensured that the recruitment procedure was enhanced.