Dynamics of Workforce Diversity in Ethiopian Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to understand the dynamics of diversity in higher educational institutions in Ethiopia particularly the dynamics in terms of gender, marital status, age, religious and educational status. The study also emphasized on main diversity dimensions as: diversity climate, organizational justice, identity, values, schema and communication practices in higher educational institutions. Theoretical Framework: This study which deals with the dynamics of diversity in higher educational institutions in Ethiopia is based on the taxonomy of work place diversity used by Tailer (2011).   Methods: The study is conducted using descriptive research design and mixed approach. The researchers describe the gender diversities and infer something based on the empirical evidences available. The Universities were selected using convenience sampling and self-administered questionnaires were distributed to respondents.   Results and Conclusion: Diversity is one of the buzzwords of our contemporary organizational realm as lack of diversity affects their performance in different perspective. Gender, marital status, age, religion and educational status were the diversity dimensions considered to see the dynamics of diversity.  The analysis indicated that Ethiopian higher educational institutions are diversified in terms of the indicated variables and especially are advised to focus on gender and religion diversities. The diversity taxonomy result indicated the following:  availability of inclusive climate, fair treatment of employees and hence, they perceive as they are part and parcel of their organization. Furthermore, employees are not subject to stereotyping at work and availability of a clear communication system in Ethiopian higher educational institutions.   Finding and Implication: Diversity can manifest in many ways and it is expressed as the differences in race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, upbringing, and philosophical views are just a few ways in which people can be diverse. Hence, leaders of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Ethiopia thus need to create an environment where people with diverse attributes work together to achieve enhanced organizational performance.