Impact of Workforce Diversity on Employee Engagement: The Mediating Role of Inclusion

Abstract

This study examine the relationship between workforce diversity and employee engagement. Furthermore, the mediating effect of inclusion was also examined between workforce diversity and employee engagement. This study was conducted at public universities in Pakistan's Malakand division, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. For this purpose cross sectional, quantitative study and survey research methodology was adopted. The sample size of 191 faculty members were   selected from the total population of 380 in selected public sector universities in Malakand Division. The sample was selected by Krejcie & Morgan (1970) sampling formula technique. For measuring variables the previously adopted questionnaires were used. The result showed that workforce diversity has significant effect on employee’s engagement, while inclusion play as a mediating role between these two variables. Therefore, diverse workforce gives every business a competitive edge because it encourages employees to contribute positively to the mission and vision of the company. Further, Inclusion is also emphasized in the research, which is essential for any business to include employees in all decision and treat them as an asset and makes them feel valued and respected. Therefore, diversity initiatives must be complemented with strong inclusion practices. This includes establishing clear inclusion policies, celebrating cultural differences, and ensuring all voices are heard in meetings and decision-making processes. Further, organizations should encourage environments where employees from all backgrounds feel safe to express ideas, provide feedback, and raise concerns. Inclusive communication strengthens the connection between diversity and engagement.

Keywords: Employee Engagement, Inclusion, Workforce Diversity