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Navigating the Nexus: Challenges Faced by Part-Time Postgraduate Government Employees in Malaysia

Author

Listed:
  • Safwan Shaari

    (Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, University Technology Malaysia, Johor; Iskandar Puteri City Council, Johor)

  • Mohamad Fahim Azman Ab Jalal

    (Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, University Technology Malaysia, Johor; Iskandar Puteri City Council, Johor)

  • Ruzanna Mohamed

    (Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, University Technology Malaysia, Johor; Iskandar Puteri City Council, Johor)

  • Mohd Norman Noh

    (Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, University Technology Malaysia, Johor; Mersing District Council, Johor)

  • Nor Ezan Samad

    (Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, University Technology Malaysia, Johor; Iskandar Regional Development Authority, Johor)

  • Faizah Mohd Fakhruddin

    (Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University Technology Malaysia, Johor)

Abstract

Despite the growing importance of advanced education for career progression, part-time postgraduate students often face numerous obstacles that impact their academic and professional lives. These challenges encompass social, economic, political, and psychological dimensions, reflecting a complex interplay of challenges within and outside the workplace. The primary objective of this research is to explore the challenges experienced by part-time postgraduate government employees in Malaysia. Utilizing a qualitative approach and case study design, data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with five informants, and thematic analysis was employed to identify prominent themes. The findings reveal four key themes, i.e., social, political, economic, and psychological challenges. Social challenges emerge in the form of people's expectations, work overload, work-life balance issues, and age-related factors. Inequitable access to government financial support is identified as the primary political challenge. Economic challenges include budget prioritization and sacrifices, as well as economic instability and the need for supplemental income. Lastly, psychological challenges encompass stress, burnout, and cognitive strain. This study recommends the development of flexible scholarship schemes targeted at part-time government employees, the enhancement of psychological support services, and the implementation of institutional policies that promote a work-study balance.

Suggested Citation

  • Safwan Shaari & Mohamad Fahim Azman Ab Jalal & Ruzanna Mohamed & Mohd Norman Noh & Nor Ezan Samad & Faizah Mohd Fakhruddin, 2025. "Navigating the Nexus: Challenges Faced by Part-Time Postgraduate Government Employees in Malaysia," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(10), pages 1555-1567, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:i:10:p:1555-1567
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Katharine G. Abraham & Susan N. Houseman, 2019. "Making Ends Meet: The Role of Informal Work in Supplementing Americans’ Income," Upjohn Working Papers 19-315, W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.
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