Influence of Training and Development on Lecturers’ Performance in Nigerian Polytechnics: A Case of Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi

Abstract

This study attempts to establish whether or not training and development has impact on lecturers in Higher Education Institutions (HEI) particularly the Polytechnics in Nigeria and subsequently identifies various training methods that are employed for that purpose. The aim is to know if there is any connection between HR practice of training and development on the perceived performances of lecturers in the Polytechnic and; more precisely, the degree to which lecturers recognize training and development improving performances on the job? Consequently, the study engages case study technique using Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, Nigeria to achieve its objective. Qualitative research methods is engaged for this study and qualitative semi structured interviews is used in generating data required while engaging thematic analysis in analysing data collected. The study reveals that there is in place a sound on the job and off the job training and development policy in the institution even though there are reservations on decisions by management on whom are sent on training and in what area particularly overseas training. That notwithstanding, it is obvious from the study that the human resource (HR) practice of training and development has impact on lecturers performances as their skills and knowledge are being updated to meet up with present day challenges. Finally, the study recommends to the management of the polytechnic under study to consider holistic implementation of this practice so that the challenges associated with observing it as found out by this study are addressed especially those to be trained and the mode to be engaged.