Gender Equity and Equality in Promoting Employees’ Engagement at Hirdaramani Knit Vavuniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The main aim of the present study is to examine the role of gender equity and equality in promoting employee engagement at Hirdaramani Knit Vavuniya, a key player in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. The research addresses the persistent challenges of gender disparities, including wage gaps, limited career advancement for women, and workplace discrimination, which affect the employee motivation and job satisfaction which will lead to the employee engagement. The primary objectives were to explore employees’ perceptions of gender equity and equality; understand the challenges and opportunities in implementing related policies; and provide recommendations for improving the practices. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 15 employees, encompassing both operational staff and top-level management who are directly affected by the gender policies. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that while gender equity policies exist, their effectiveness is hindered by weak enforcement, unconscious biases in career advancement, and a significant underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles. Challenges such as worklife balance conflicts and a lack of awareness about existing policies further worsen the issue. However, initiatives like leadership training and participation of women in decision making were noted as positive steps. The study concludes that a more robust and monitored approach is needed to translate policy into practice. Recommendations include strengthening policy implementation, ensuring transparent promotion and wage structures, providing gender sensitivity training, and introducing flexible work arrangements to foster a more inclusive and engaging work environment for all employees.