An Examination of the Association between Non - Retention of Trained Casual Employees on Operational Efficiency in Higher Learning Institutions in Zambia: The Case of University of Zambia

Background: The increasing prevalence of temporary employment contracts in higher education institutions (HEIs) globally has become a significant concern, raising questions about its impact on both individuals and institutions. This trend, particularly among academic staff and researchers, has been documented in various contexts. (Times Higher Education, 2023).

Methodology: The study used primary data sources and was collected using questionnaires. The study had a sample size of 405 respondents and were chosen using simple random sampling. The study is mixed study thus an explanatory sequential research design was appropriate to determine the effects of non-retention of trained casual employees on the UNZA. Data collected from the questionnaires were coded in Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version (25.0). Demographic profiles and themes were presented using graphs Statistical methods such as Pearson’s correlation, chi-square analysis and regression analysis were used to answer the hypothesis statement of the study.

Results: The study found that non-retention at UNZA is driven by multiple, closely related employment challenges rather than a single issue. It was revealed that there is an association between non retention of trained casual employees on operational efficiency at UNZA. The showed that most respondents believe that non-retention of casual employees negatively impacts customer service quality.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that the non-retention of trained casual employees at UNZA is a multifaceted issue with significant operational and financial consequences. The findings show that non-retention is driven by interrelated employment conditions particularly perceived unfair treatment, job insecurity, low wages, and poor working conditions rather than a single factor. Statistically, non-retention was found to have a strong and significant relationship with operational efficiency, indicating that the loss of trained casual staff undermines institutional performance.