Determinants of Employee Engagement among Teaching Faculty in Higher Education Institutions: Evidence from Chennai City

Employee engagement has emerged as a critical factor in achieving institutional effectiveness and faculty retention in higher education. Engaged
faculty members demonstrate commitment, enthusiasm, and active participation in institutional goals, thereby enhancing the learning
environment and organizational reputation. This study aims to identify the determinants of employee engagement among teaching faculty in
higher education institutions in Chennai City.
The research focuses on variables such as leadership support, work environment, recognition and rewards, and professional development
opportunities, and examines their impact on employee engagement levels. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 200
teaching faculty members representing both public and private higher education institutions. Statistical analyses including descriptive
statistics, reliability testing, correlation, and multiple regression were conducted using SPSS software.
The findings reveal that leadership support, recognition, and work environment significantly influence employee engagement, while
professional development also contributes positively but to a lesser extent. The study concludes that effective leadership and supportive
institutional culture are vital to sustaining engagement among teaching faculty.