Post-Pandemic Influences on Occupational Well-Being: Insights from a Higher Education Institution in Oman

Background: Globally, COVID-19 posed multifaceted challenges to the educational system, and employees were driven into completely unfamiliar territory.Assessing any residual impact that may influence employee well-being and productivity is vital.The objectives of the present study were to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the well-being of faculty and staff at the National University of Science and Technology, Oman & explore post-pandemic occupational well-being.Materials and Methods: 136 employees consented to participate in this study.The study design was cross-sectional, and convenient sampling was employed.The survey method involves item pooling from standardized scales, including the WHO Five Well-being Index, COVID-19 Stress Scale, Connor Davidson Resilience Scale and the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire.Statistical methods, including correlation and regression analysis, were used.Results: Results indicate that employees (67.7%) experienced stress and anxiety during the pandemic.The support provided by the administration (64.9%) and access to vaccination services (48.6%) primarily contributed to the well-being of staff members.Participant responses also indicated that overall well-being and resilience capacity were adequate following the pandemic.However, 23.4% of employees reported that they currently experienced negative feelings.Conclusions: These findings reiterate that organizational interventions to reduce stress levels and enhance resilience and well-being are paramount.