Socio-economic factors shaping the motivation and professional growth of university faculty

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the socio-economic factors influencing the motivation of university faculty in their professional activities. The study also analyzed mechanisms and strategies for enhancing faculty motivation, with a focus on improving their effectiveness, job satisfaction, and professional development. To collect and analyze data, the study employed an analytical approach, functional-structural analysis, comparative analysis, expert evaluation, and practical recommendation methods. Based on a review of literature and empirical data, the study identified key strategies for enhancing faculty motivation, including: ensuring a competitive salary aligned with qualifications and workload; introducing various forms of financial incentives such as publication bonuses, research grants, seniority-based pay, and accreditation-related bonuses; promoting non-monetary motivation through career advancement opportunities, official awards, access to professional development programs, and academic resources; fostering a supportive social environment through experience-sharing initiatives, university-funded research programs, and intra-institutional collaboration; improving working conditions by modernizing classrooms, laboratories, and providing comfortable rest areas; and implementing flexible employment models that allow faculty to balance teaching and research activities. The implementation of these measures is expected to enhance university competitiveness, reduce faculty turnover, and create favorable conditions for the professional growth of academic staff.