The Role of Educational Management in Promoting Work-Life Balance and Reducing Workplace Stress in The University

Abstract

Introduction: In the fast-paced world of higher education, finding a work-life balance and reducing workplace stress has become a top priority for both academic and administrative staff. This research delves into the crucial role that educational management plays in creating a supportive and balanced work environment within universities.

Objectives: This paper discusses the organizational climate, work-related stress, and balancing work and personal life. This aims to shed light on how effective educational management can play a key role in boosting employee well-being, increasing productivity, and fostering sustainability within institutions. Understanding this role better is essential for creating healthier academic environments that can proactively meet the changing needs of a designated faculty members.

Methods: This quantitative study utilized a survey adapted from the NIOSH Generic Job Stress Questionnaire (2014) and the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) tool (2021), tailored to fit the specific context of the study. A total of 42 faculty members such as directors, deans, assistant deans, heads, program chairs, and coordinators took part in the survey. After data collection, responses were tallied and analyzed statistically. To further clarify and validate the key findings, follow-up interviews were conducted with seven participants who were willing to share their insights. Participation in these interviews was completely voluntary and aimed at supporting data triangulation.

Results: The organizational climate survey reveals a generally friendly and cooperative workplace, but it also points out some significant internal conflicts among different groups and a lack of support for each other's ideas. The employees are dealing with considerable work-related stress due to overwhelming workloads, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of control over their tasks. Additionally, the data indicates that employees often face heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and overlapping responsibilities, making it tough to strike a healthy work-life balance.

Conclusions: Employees are facing some tough working conditions that are characterized by interpersonal conflicts, a strong sense of professionalism, and high levels of job-related stress. This includes not having enough time to rest and struggling with work-life balance. The demands of their jobs, tight deadlines, and frequent overlaps are taking a toll on employees' personal lives, forcing them to sacrifice valuable time with family and for themselves.