THE ROLE OF CULTURE IN HUMAN RESOURCE TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

ABSTRACT This dissertation analyzed the role of culture in Human Resource Training and Development practices through a qualitative study of ProCredit Ghana Ltd. The guiding theory for the work was the ‘Model of Culture Fit’ developed by Kanungo and Medonca in 1990 which postulates that national culture and industry culture influence human resource management practices through the mediation of organizational culture. Through a survey, interviews, observation, and company policy documents, cultural values based on the cultural dimensions of Geert Hofstede and organizational culture dimensions of Edgar Schein, existing in the organization were established. The quantitative and qualitative data were both analyzed to determine if relationships existed between the cultural values on the various levels based on the guiding theory. The organizational cultural values were found to be positively correlated with the national cultural values and the industry values. The analyses showed that the organizational culture had a role in the development and structuring of training and development programs. Another interesting find was the ability of employees to adapt to the environment of the firm although some of the firm’s values conflicted with their national values. The study will guide organizations in the development of an organizational structure that will enhance the strategy of the firm and improve all human resource management practices.