INFLUENCE OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT ON EMPLOYEES’ SKILL DEVELOPMENT IN TABORA WATER AND SANITATION AUTHORITY (TUWASA), TANZANIA

Abstract

This research examined the impact of career development on skill enhancement within the Tabora Water and Sanitation Authority (TUWASA) in Tanzania. A descriptive study design was employed, surveying 67 operational staff members through structured questionnaires. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant positive associations for skill advancement (B = 0.256, p = 0.034, Beta = 0.269), continuous learning initiatives (B = 0.265, p = 0.030, Beta = 0.276), and career planning interventions (B = 0.292, p = 0.029, Beta = 0.289) with skill development. However, professional networking (B = 0.113, p = 0.365, Beta = 0.119) and cross-functional exposure (B = 0.005, p = 0.969, Beta = 0.005) showed no statistically significant associations. The regression model exhibited a moderate predictive capability (R = 0.515), explaining approximately 26.6% of the variance in skill development. The ANOVA results confirmed the model's significance in predicting skill development (F = 4.410, p = 0.002). These findings emphasize the necessity for TUWASA and similar organizations to prioritize structured programs promoting skill advancement, continuous learning, and robust career planning strategies to augment their workforce's skill sets. Recommendations include tailored initiatives focusing on training programs, workshops, and fostering a culture supporting continuous learning and career development to maximize skill enhancement among employees.

Keywords: Career Development, Skill Development, Skill Advancement, Continuous Learning, Career Planning, Professional Networking, Cross-Functional Exposure.