Knowledge Sharing, Perceived Organisational Support and Innovative Work Behaviour in Ghanaian Higher Education Institutions: The Case of University of Education, Winneba

Abstract

In an era in which knowledge is regarded as a vital asset, the ability to share and manage knowledge effectively is essential for organisational success and innovation. This research explores the role of knowledge sharing behaviours in fostering innovative work behaviours and examines the moderating influence of perceived organisational support, as well as the motivating factors behind “ knowledge sharing among academic staff in higher education institutions in Ghana. The study is grounded in the Human Capital Theory and Organisational Support Theory, offering a “ robust framework for understanding the interplay between knowledge sharing, perceived organisational support, and innovative work behaviour ”” . A mixed-method approach, specifically the concurrent embedded research design, was employed. Data were collected from 364 academics across eight academic units at the University of Education, Winneba. Descriptive statistics, structural equation modeling (SMART-PLS), and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings reveal that knowledge sharing has a significant positive impact on innovative work behaviour, with perceived organisational support strengthening this relationship. Furthermore, individual, organisational, and technological factors were identified as key motivators for knowledge sharing among academics. The study underscores the importance of fostering a supportive organisational culture that encourages knowledge exchange and empowers employees to contribute creatively. The results provide valuable insights for educational administrators to develop strategies that promote knowledge sharing and innovation, ultimately enhancing institutional performance. This research enriches the existing literature on knowledge management and innovation in higher education by highlighting the critical role of organisational support in facilitating innovative work behaviours.