Implementation of a code of conduct for human resource officers in happy workplace projects at autonomous universities

Abstract

Ethics serve as fundamental guidelines that help build trust and transparency in operations, while promoting fairness and responsibility to stakeholders in the management of human resources in universities. However, discrimination, unfair practices, lack of transparency, and violation of personal rights affects the image and lack of trust in universities. The aim of this study was to examine the application of the Code of Ethics for Human Resource Officers in the Happy Workplace Project and Activities of State-controlled Universities using qualitative research approaches. The sample group was selected by collecting data from relevant documents, in-depth interviews with 6 experts, and focus group discussions with 11 human resource officers from state universities. The data analysis used descriptive content analysis and presented the results in a descriptive format. The research findings revealed the code of ethics among human resource officers in 3 dimensions:  Dimension 1: Ethics of Honesty and Fairness; Dimension 2: Ethics of Diligence, Determination, Knowledge Development, and Ability Leading to Professional Excellence and Dimension 3: Ethics of Confidentiality and Appropriate Disclosure of Information. All three ethical principles were followed during the happy workplace project and activities at the universities in the following 4 steps: Step 1: Project launching; Step 2: Planning; Step 3: Operations; and Step 4: Project closure. Dimension 1 is a basic ethical principle and code of conduct that has become a behavior based on ethics consisting of fundamental moral principles. As for Dimensions 2 and 3, human resource professionals adhere to them for the equal benefits of all parties concerned, which preserves the dignity and honor of the profession.