The new era of QWL: Sustainable practices for sugar co-operative employees

Abstract

The study assessed the perceived Quality of Work Life (QWL) among employees of sugar co-operatives and explored sustainable strategies for improvement. Findings revealed that the overall availability of QWL was rated as “Average” with a cumulative mean score of 3.23, indicating a significant gap between expectations and reality. None of the eight QWL components achieved an “Excellent” rating, and critical areas such as occupied space by work in life, social integration at work, and adequate and fair compensation lagged behind in importance versus availability. Employees suggested interventions including social get-togethers (90%), regular training programs (88.33%), competitive pay (85.33%), and family-oriented benefits (79.67%). Based on triangulation with expert opinions, a set of management strategies was formulated emphasizing participatory approaches, job enrichment, flexible policies, health and wellness programs, and technological modernization. These strategies provide actionable insights for managers and policymakers to create inclusive, motivating, and sustainable workplaces.