Research Article
Assessment of Staff Job Satisfaction Among Academic and Administrative Personnel at Dessie Higher Education Health Science College, Ethiopia, 2026
Ismail Ebrie Ali*
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 4, December 2026
Pages:
61-74
Received:
2 October 2026
Accepted:
21 October 2026
Published:
9 November 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.mededu.20260204.11
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Abstract: Background: Staff job satisfaction is an important determinant of institutional performance, staff retention, and the quality of education in higher education institutions. In health science colleges, the satisfaction of academic and administrative personnel may influence teaching effectiveness, institutional management, and the overall learning environment. However, evidence on staff job satisfaction in regional Ethiopian health science colleges remains limited. Objective: To assess the level of job satisfaction and identify areas of satisfaction and dissatisfaction among academic and administrative staff at Dessie Higher Education Health Science College in 2026. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 staff members. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through the Survey-Heart application. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, leadership and supervision, compensation and benefits, career development, training opportunities, the work environment, and administrative processes. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, while open-ended responses were analyzed thematically. Results: Of the 60 respondents, 80.0% were male, 95.0% worked in academic units, and 55.0% had more than seven years of work experience. Overall, 32.0% of respondents were satisfied with their jobs, 28.0% reported neutral satisfaction, and 40.0% were dissatisfied. Satisfaction was highest with coworker relationships (88.3%) and supervisor support (65.0%). In contrast, dissatisfaction was substantial regarding training opportunities (81.7%), salary and benefits (65.0%), and career growth (60.0%). Furthermore, 75.0% of respondents rated the courtesy of the Complaint Handling Department as low or moderate. Qualitative responses identified campus greenery and academic freedom as institutional strengths, while inadequate salary and housing allowances, unstable internet connectivity, and perceived unfairness in recruitment and selection were identified as areas requiring improvement. Conclusion: Job dissatisfaction outweighed satisfaction among staff at Dessie Higher Education Health Science College. Although respondents expressed positive views about coworker relationships, supervisory support, campus greenery, and academic freedom, substantial concerns remained regarding training opportunities, compensation, career development, and administrative fairness. Addressing these concerns through improved staff development, transparent recruitment and promotion procedures, review of compensation and benefits, and stronger institutional support may help improve staff satisfaction and organizational effectiveness.
Abstract: Background: Staff job satisfaction is an important determinant of institutional performance, staff retention, and the quality of education in higher education institutions. In health science colleges, the satisfaction of academic and administrative personnel may influence teaching effectiveness, institutional management, and the overall learning en...
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