Employee engagement as a mediator of strategic alignment and organizational performance in Ethiopian education institutions

Abstract This study aims to investigate the mediating role of employee engagement in the relationship between strategic alignment and organizational performance within Ethiopian education institutions. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing an explanatory research design. The sample consisted of 365 respondents selected through a stratified random sampling technique from three educational institutions. Data analysis was conducted using confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis within structural equation modeling frameworks. The findings reveal that strategic alignment has a significant positive impact on employee engagement, which fully mediates the relationship between strategic alignment and organizational performance. Consequently, organizational leaders are encouraged to articulate strategic intents with clarity and promote defined roles and processes to enhance employee engagement. The study concludes that fostering employee engagement is critical for improving organizational performance, particularly in the context of educational institutions. The implications of this research underline the necessity for clear communication of strategic objectives and the alignment of human resource practices with organizational goals to cultivate a more engaged workforce.