VIII. Academic Studies Congress | Andizhan, Uzbekistan

Student Volunteerism in Malaysia's Higher Education: A Study of Tourism and Hospitality Department, Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin's

Not scheduled

20m

Description

Volunteerism among politeknik students has gained significant attention in recent years as it serves as a valuable tool for instilling a sense of social responsibility and moral development (Sahri et al., 2013). Moreover, understanding the motivational factors that drive students to engage in volunteer activities can provide insights that aid in fostering greater involvement in community services and improving the overall impact of such programs within the educational setting (Omonijo et al., 2018). Therefore, this study examines the motivations and barriers to student volunteerism at the Tourism and Hospitality Department of Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin, Malaysia. The data were collected through a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire administered via Google Forms and blast to all student in this department. Through a quantitative analysis of 324 students the research identifies the primary motivations for volunteering as altruistic values, career development, and personal growth. The findings indicate that female students are more inclined to volunteer than males, with a significant portion having prior volunteer experience. Despite the motivations, financial constraints and academic workloads are identified as major barriers to participation. The study suggests that to enhance student volunteerism, institutions should consider implementing strategies such as mentorship programs, policy revisions, and improved academic integration. These measures aim to address the motivational factors and overcome the challenges faced by students, thereby fostering a more inclusive and active volunteer culture.