Project Abstract

Abstract
Human resources investment plays a crucial role in the performance of local government councils. This study focuses on the impact of human resources investment on the performance of Uyo Local Government Council in Akwa Ibom State. The research seeks to explore the relationship between human resources investment and the overall performance of the local government council in terms of service delivery and efficiency. A mixed-methods approach will be employed to gather data for this study. Quantitative data will be collected through surveys and questionnaires distributed to employees of Uyo Local Government Council to assess the level of human resources investment in terms of training, development, and welfare programs. Qualitative data will be gathered through interviews with key stakeholders to provide insights into how human resources investment influences the performance of the council. The study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by highlighting the importance of investing in human resources for local government performance. The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers and local government administrators on the benefits of prioritizing human resources development in enhancing overall performance. The results of this study are anticipated to reveal the extent to which human resources investment affects the performance of Uyo Local Government Council. By examining factors such as employee motivation, skills development, and organizational culture, this research will offer a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between human resources investment and council performance. The research findings are expected to have practical implications for improving the performance of Uyo Local Government Council and other local government authorities in Akwa Ibom State. Recommendations based on the study results will be provided to guide decision-making processes regarding human resources management and investment strategies in local government administration. Overall, this study seeks to underscore the significance of human resources investment in driving performance improvements within local government councils. By emphasizing the need for effective human resources practices and policies, this research aims to contribute to enhancing service delivery, efficiency, and overall performance of Uyo Local Government Council in Akwa Ibom State.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

1.1   Background of the Study

        Human Resources Investment also known as Human Resource Development is one of the key functions of an organization. It is the framework for the expansion of human resource talent within the organization (Azhar and Batool, 2004). Human capital is an inventory of human talent, skills and education at the disposal of organizations while human resource development is usually based on the training and educational programs designed to ensure the continuous improvement of both the individuals and organizations. HRD is the systematic process through which employees of any organization learn new and improved skills and talent that can be beneficial for the organizations. HRD is not a defined object, but is based on the series of organized processes with specific learning objectives (Nadler 2004).

        Human resource development as a theory is a framework for the expansion of human capital within an organization through the development of both the organization and individual to achieve performance improvement (Elwood, Holton and Trott 2006). Human resource development allows the employees to progress in their careers and enables the organization to achieve its goals efficiently and effectively as well. It treats employees as an asset to the organizations whose value can be enhanced through the enhancement of knowledge and talent through education, development. The primary focus of human resource development is on the growth and employee development. Organizations have now replaced use of the word training costs with human resource investment showing human resource as a strategic long term asset of the organization. The investment in employees learning is aimed at progressively upgrading the skills to increase the organization’s potential to efficiently achieve its goals. HRD activities aim to unleash the potential that lies within the employees of the organization.

        In recent years, ideas and practices relating to human resources investment (development) have moved beyond a narrow conception of training and development. Many organizations now attempt to take a holistic view that embraces the idea of learning at individual and organizational levels as a source of competitive advantage. Rapid changes in technology and fast changing administrative environment have all contributed to the view that learning is the only strategy to cope with change. The concept of knowledge economy has revolutionized the scope of human resources development. Human resources development has moved out of training department into every aspect of organizational life as many organizations have attempted to become learning organizations.