Co-worker support and work engagement of staff of federal colleges of education in Nigeria: moderating role of role clarity

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of co-worker support and role clarity on work engagement among staff members of Federal Colleges of Education in Northern Nigeria. Drawing upon a structural equation modelling (SEM) framework, a survey-based, cross-sectional research technique was employed to examine these interrelated constructs. The study found significant relationships between co-worker support and work engagement, role clarity and work engagement: demonstrating the pivotal role of supportive work relationships and clear roles in enhancing work engagement. Furthermore, this study explores the moderating influence of role clarity, shedding light on how well-defined job roles can amplify or attenuate the impact of co-worker support on work engagement. The study found that role clarity significantly moderated the relationship between co-worker support and work engagement. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on employee well-being and organizational dynamics, offering insights that can inform strategies for enhancing work engagement in educational institutions in Northern Nigeria and beyond. This study underscores the importance of fostering supportive work environments and the need for organizations to provide clear and well-defined job roles for their employees to maximize their engagement and productivity.

Keywords

• co-worker support
• role clarity
• work engagement
• social exchange theory