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

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.