The Contribution of Trade Unions to Promotion of Employee Performance: Perspective from Officials of the Uasu Egerton University Chapter, Kenya

Abstract

Trade unions have been reported to influence employee performance in an organization. In Kenya, the Universities’ Academic Staff Union (UASU) was formed to, inter alia, ensure better welfare and terms of service for its members, provision of a favourable working environment, and protection of its members from harassment and firing by their employers. Since the inception of the UASU, little information is documented about its contribution to the promotion of employee performance. Through a cross-sectional survey, this study evaluated the contribution of the UASU to promotion of employee performance from the perspective of the UASU officials at Egerton University Chapter. It also examined the challenges faced by the UASU Chapter. Results indicate that the activities of the UASU promoted employee performance in the University. Broadly, the UASU positively influenced employee wage rates, morale, terms and conditions of service, employee job commitment, individual output, and employee training and development. It also positively affected union performance, and organizational layout/ work practices. Regarding challenges faced, it was evident that there were neither leadership problems nor declining membership within the Chapter. However, victimization of the officials and social factors were a challenge. Responses were neutral on political interference, recognition of the UASU by University management, employer sincerity on implementation of collective bargaining agreements and inadequacy of finances for the operation of the activities of the UASU. Generally, it is vital to engage the UASU in the activities of the University to enhance and sustain effective and quality service delivery in the University.

Keywords: Trade Unions, Employee performance, UASU, Egerton University, Kenya