AN EMPIRICAL STUDY TO EXPLORE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN JOB SATISFACTION AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTE OF GUJARAT

Purpose: This study aims to examine the relationship between Job Satisfaction (JS) and Employee Engagement (EE), focusing on how employees' perceptions of welfare schemes and organizational challenges impact their emotional and cognitive commitment to institutional growth. The research specifically investigates this dynamic within the context of Gujarat Technological University (GTU), India. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research design was adopted, utilizing a structured questionnaire to gather data from 123 employees of GTU. The study explores the influence of key dimensions of job satisfaction— namely Growth Opportunity and Work Environment, Leadership Support, Rewards and Recognition, Work-Life Balance, and Job Security—on employee engagement. Findings: The results reveal a significant and positive correlation between job satisfaction and employee engagement. All measured dimensions of job satisfaction were found to have a substantial impact on employee engagement, indicating that enhanced job satisfaction leads to increased emotional investment and organizational commitment among employees. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on organizational behaviour by highlighting the integral role of job satisfaction in fostering employee engagement. By focusing on a higher education institution in India, it offers valuable insights into how tailored HR practices can build a more engaged, productive, and emotionally connected workforce, thereby supporting long-term institutional success.