Work related issues and job satisfaction among of government higher education faculties

Abstract

Faculty members in higher education are pivotal in shaping the academic and professional futures of students. In India, they are categorized into two groups: tenure-track positions, which include assistant professors (AP), associate professors (ASP), and professors (P), and non-tenure “guest faculty (GF).” Despite working full-time, GF members do not receive the same benefits, such as allowances, pensions, and leave, that are provided to their tenured counterparts. This study explored job satisfaction and work-related challenges among 518 faculty members in Madhya Pradesh across these hierarchical levels. Job satisfaction was measured using a validated psychometric tool, while work-related concerns were assessed through structured interviews. The results revealed a distinct hierarchy in job satisfaction: P reported the highest satisfaction, followed by ASP, AP, and GF, who reported the lowest levels of satisfaction. GF experienced significant dissatisfaction due to issues such as discrimination, heavy workloads, low pay, and job insecurity. In contrast, tenured faculty members reported higher satisfaction, largely due to job security and manageable workloads. However, all faculty levels expressed concerns about increasing administrative burdens that detract from their teaching responsibilities. These findings highlight the disparities between tenured and non-tenured faculty, emphasizing the need for policy reforms to address job satisfaction and equity in higher education.