The Impact of Psychological Conditions on Employee Engagement of Administrative Staff in National Universities, Western Province in Sri Lanka

Objective: This study endeavors to investigate the influence of psychological safety and availability on the engagement levels of administrative staff in national universities in the Western province of Sri Lanka, in the backdrop of employee mental health challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Employing a quantitative approach, primary data was gathered through the administration of a questionnaire via Google Forms to the targeted sample, achieving a 55.3% response rate from a sample size of 132. Results: The analysis revealed that self-consciousness did not significantly impact employee engagement, whereas self-efficacy exerted a substantial positive influence. Research Implications: The findings shed light on the crucial role of self-efficacy in fostering employee engagement amidst global health crises, extending the discourse on psychological determinants of employee engagement particularly in an academic administrative context. Practical Implications: The results advocate for higher education authorities to initiate measures aimed at enhancing the skills, competencies, and abilities of university administrative staff to bolster engagement levels and, by extension, the overall productivity and effectiveness of administrative operations within the university setting. Social Implications: Enhanced engagement among university administrative staff could potentially lead to a more conducive learning environment, thereby indirectly contributing to the broader educational ecosystem. Originality/Value: This investigation, situated in a unique socio-geographical and organizational context, enriches the global narrative on employee engagement and psychological well-being, especially amidst unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.