This paper is part of the International Journal of Applied Research in Business and Management (ISSN: 2700-8983), Volume 6, Issue 1, published in 2025.
Authors
Baphiwe Daweti, Wiza Munyeka
Abstract
This study was prompted by the 2002 merger of Technikon Natal and M.L. Sultan Technikon, forming the Durban Institute of Technology, now known as the Durban University of Technology. It examined the impact of mergers on lower-level employee motivation and morale, focusing on their perceptions during the pre-merger, during the merger, and post-merger phases. Data were collected using a quantitative approach employing a cross-sectional survey design from lower-level employees at a South African University of Technology (n = 50). Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, measure central tendency and dispersion, and exploratory factor analysis were used in analysing the data. The study found that the merger negatively affected lower-level employees’ perceptions of the process during the post-merger phase, resulting in low staff morale. While some employees were less satisfied with the changes, others adapted more positively. Notably, motivation levels remained high among lower-level employees. However, communication from top management to these employees was minimal. The study recommends improving communication and training between lower-level employees, supervisors, and management, and emphasises the importance of involving lower-level staff early and throughout the higher education mergers.
Suggested Citation (APA 7th)
Daweti, B., Munyeka, W. (2025). Human Resource Implications of Mergers: Evidence from Lower-Level Employees at a South African University of Technology. International Journal of Applied Research in Business and Management, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijarbm.2025.bdht.45686
