CHANGE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: BOOSTING EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AT AFIT KADUNA

This study looks at how change management strategies shape employee performance at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna. The study adopted Expectancy Theory and used a survey design. Primary data came from 242 staff members selected through non-probability sampling out of a total population of 611 across all five faculties. For analysis, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (SmartPLS 4) was used. The measurement model loadings were above 0.60 and AVE values cleared the 0.50. What stood out in the structural model was that communication strategy has a clear positive effect on work productivity (β = 0.305, p < 0.001). So the takeaway? Transparent, timely, and consistent communication matters a lot when organizations go through change. We recommend that AFIT put in place a solid twoway internal communication system and create real opportunities for employees to get involved in change initiatives. These findings add to what we know about change management in higher education, and they offer practical guidance for military-academic institutions working to become more adaptable and efficient.