http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/747 Published Articules/Papers 2026-06-10T21:28:06Z http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/749 The Mediating role of job engagement in the relationship between flexible work arrangements and employee empowerment Muchakubvura, Dzidzai; Chikove, Munyaradzi; Msosa, Steven Kayambazinthu; Ntshangase, Bhekabantu Alson Higher education institutions play a critical role in economic growth by moulding the human capital necessary for driving innovation, change, and transformation. Despite their critical role in contributing to the economy, these institutions are experiencing high labour turnover, which subsequently impacts efficiency and productivity. Thus, the global demand for highly skilled professional employees has significantly contributed to the skills flight from Zimbabwe’s institutions of higher learning to other economies. This study evaluated the mediating role of job engagement in the relationship between flexible work arrangements and employee empowerment within the Zimbabwean Higher Education sector. A quantitative research design was employed to collect data from a convenience sample of 200 respondents in this sector. In addition to being quantitative, the researchers used an explanatory case study and a cross-sectional research design for this investigation. The data were analysed using the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation coefficient via the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings reveal robust interrelationships amongst the variables, emphasising their substantial contributions to explaining the variances in the measured constructs. The findings of this study show a significant relationship between flexible work arrangements, job engagement, and employee empowerment. The findings suggest that university administrators should develop comprehensive, flexible work strategies to address the challenges faced by their personnel. Furthermore, they should enhance the working conditions of their staff as a means of improving the overall quality of higher education (HE). This study also offers insights for government policies concerning the labour requirements of the higher education sector. 2025-09-01T00:00:00Z http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/748 Exploring the challenges and solutions for cultivating an inclusive work environment in the energy sector in Zimbabwe Muchakubvura, Dzidzai; Nyanga, Takupiwa; Matsidilso, Nehemiah Naong The purpose of the study was to explore the challenges and strategies of cultivating and promoting inclusivity and diversity in the energy sector. Grounded in the interpretivist research paradigm, a qualitative approach was adopted specifically using descriptive multiple case study design. In-depth interviews were conducted from sixteen purposively selected participants from the energy industry in Chipinge district, Zimbabwe. Data was analyzed using the thematic data analysis technique. The study found out that the work environment in the energy industry was partially inclusive. There is evidence of both success stories and challenges with regards to inclusivity in the energy sector. The main challenges faced by the energy sector in promoting inclusivity include resource inadequacies, unconscious biases, resistance to change, communication barriers, tokenism, lack of knowledge and commitment from managers, strategic misalignment, policy deficiency and gender disparities in leadership roles. The strategies that can be employed to cultivate an inclusive work environment are the development of comprehensive policies, cultural transformation through management training, deliberate inclusion in procurement and infrastructure design, regular employee surveys, inclusive leadership programs, and mentorship initiatives. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on fostering inclusivity in the workplace by equipping all stakeholders with full knowledge and understanding of inclusive workplace dynamics. The study also contributes to the body of knowledge by shedding light on the challenges faced by the energy sector and strategies for accelerating the embracing of inclusivity in the energy sector. Furthermore, the study adds to the underexplored discourse of diversity management in Southern Africa and brings a grounded qualitative voice to the broader literature. 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z