WORKFORCE DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES THE CASE OF COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to empirically assess the practice and challenges of workforce diversity management in Commercial bank of Ethiopia. To achieve this purpose a mixed research approach (both qualitative and quantitative) is used by applying descriptive type of research design using the survey method of data collection. The sample consisted of 300 managers selected from branches under Addis Ababa districts. Questionnaire with five-point Likert scale and semi structured interview issued to collect primary data. Regarding to the assessment of practice and challenges of workforce diversity management questionnaire were adopted from (Kelali, 2018) and (Smith, 2011) and amended as per the related literature and the objectives of the study. SPSS software 20.0 version is used to analyze the collected data by using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. Results on the overall assessment of practice and challenges of workforce diversity management shows a gender and age imbalance in managerial position of the bank. Company practice diversity management based on equal employment opportunity but fails to implement inclusion policy such a policy benefits the company to become more creative, efficient, and productive. On the other hand negative attitudes of an individual such as discrimination, lack of ability to manage a diverse workforce and intention to turnover are serious challenges to manage a diverse workforce. Hence, based on the findings and mainly from the Conclusion different recommendations are suggested. Commercial bank of Ethiopia should develop and implement a policy that helps leaders to smooth their day to day activities and to avoid negative attitudes and harmonize the working relationship and utilize the opportunities of having a diverse workforce. The bank should also give diversity training such as cultural training to leaders as well to all employees in order create awareness and avoid negative attitudes of an individual.