Mediating Effect of Dynamic Capabilities on Human Capital as a Driver of Research Productivity of Academic Staff in Kenyan Universities

Abstract

Research productivity is increasingly being recognised as a key measure of achievement and is therefore a basis for promotion and tenure for academic staff as well as an important component in the global ranking of universities. However, research productivity of academic staff in Kenyan universities is characterised by limited publications, resulting in the low positioning of Kenyan universities in global rankings. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of human capital and dynamic capabilities on research productivity of academic staff in Kenyan universities. This study adopted a correlational research design and sampled 392 academic staff members. Both regression and bootstrap analyses were used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that human capital has a significant influence on research productivity of academic staff in Kenyan universities; however, the influence of human capital is not direct, but is partially mediated by dynamic capabilities. The outcomes of the study provide insight to academic staff to invest heavily in both human capital and dynamic capabilities to foster research productivity. Additionally, the results of the study provide an understanding to the university management on possible strategic choices that can boost the research productivity of academic staff