INFLUENCE OF KNOWLEDGE ACQUISITION ON HUMAN RESOURCE PLANNING IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION OF KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of knowledge acquisition on human resource planning in the Public Service Commission of Kenya.
Problem Statement: Human resource planning is a critical function that ensures organizations have the right talent with the right skills at the right time to achieve their strategic goals. However, many organizations struggle with effective human resource planning, leading to issues such as skills gaps, high turnover, and difficulty in meeting business objectives.
Methodology: The study adopted a positivist research philosophy. A mixed research design was employed, targeting 209 employees from various hierarchical levels within the organization. The study used a census approach, incorporating all employees of the Public Service Commission of Kenya. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and statistical analysis using correlation and regression techniques.
Results of the Study: The study found that knowledge acquisition had a significant positive influence on human resource planning (r = 0.695, β = 0.695, p = 0.000). The results indicated that effective knowledge acquisition practices contributed significantly to workforce planning by improving skills matching, reducing turnover rates, and enhancing organizational efficiency.
Conclusion: The study concludes that knowledge acquisition plays a pivotal role in enhancing human resource planning within the Public Service Commission of Kenya.
Recommendations: The study recommends that the Public Service Commission of Kenya should enhance knowledge acquisition practices through structured continuous learning programs, including training sessions, workshops, and seminars on emerging HR trends. Additionally, the organization should establish formal mechanisms for capturing external knowledge and invest in a robust knowledge management system to facilitate documentation, retrieval, and integration into human resource planning activities.
Keywords: Knowledge acquisition, human resource planning, public service commission, Kenya
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