A Discussion of Job Satisfaction among Academic Personnel at Al-Imra International University in Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Ali Mohamed Dahir 
Published: January 2025

The main goal of this article was to investigate Job Satisfaction among Academic Personnel at Al-Imra International University in Mogadishu-Somalia. Problem: The job satisfaction of academic staff at Al-Imra International University (AIIU) in Somalia is not well understood, despite its critical role in employee productivity and organizational performance. This research gap is significant, as there is a lack of empirical studies on job satisfaction in the Somali higher education sector. Addressing these issues is crucial for AIIU's long-term success and contributes to broader discussions on workforce management in the Somali higher education landscape. Method: The study was conducted at Al-Imra International University in Mogadishu, Somalia, using a cross-sectional survey design. The research involved 80 academic personnel, including 50 lecturers, 10 associate professors, and 20 academic directors. The data was analyzed using SPSS 27, with frequencies calculated for descriptive analysis. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the validity and reliability of the study.
The study surveyed 59 individuals aged 25-30, with 38.8% being male and 23.3% female. The majority (73.8%) were single, with 43.3% married and 3.8% divorced. The majority (43.8%) were at bachelor, master, or Ph.D. levels, with 55.0%) being lecturers, with 20.0% being associate professors and 25.0% being academic directors. The survey indicates that 22.5% of respondents are dissatisfied with their job roles at Al-Imra International University, with 35.0%) disagreeing that they align well with their skills and career goals, and 36.3% lacking necessary resources, support, and autonomy.
The survey results show that a majority of staff at Al-Imra International University are dissatisfied with their current salary, career advancement path, and the university's support for professional development. The majority also disagree with the university's policies and practices that support work-life balance. The majority of staff are not satisfied with the university's support for acquiring new skills and knowledge. Additionally, the majority of staff are not satisfied with the university's policies and practices that support work-life balance. Furthermore, a significant number of students are not satisfied with the ability to balance their academic responsibilities with personal/family commitments. The survey results highlight the need for improved policies and practices to ensure a more balanced and supportive environment for workers at Al-Imra International University. The survey results indicate that 28.7% disagree that job satisfaction positively impacts productivity, while 32.5% disagree and 20.0% are neutral. The majority disagree about job satisfaction contributing to responsibilities, engagement, enthusiasm, commitment, and loyalty to the university.
The study evaluates job satisfaction among academic staff at Al-Imra International University in Somalia. Results show significant dissatisfaction with job roles, resources, work environment, and alignment between skills and responsibilities. The study suggests the university needs to review policies and support systems to create a more balanced environment.