The Impact of Employee Development Programs on Employee Productivity: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Employee development programs are increasingly recognized as vital drivers of productivity and organizational performance, particularly within the education sector. In the context of Saudi Arabia’s educational reform and its emphasis on human capital development, training and engagement initiatives have become central to achieving institutional excellence and aligning with national transformation objectives. These programs not only enhance technical competencies but also foster motivation, collaboration, and a culture of continuous learning—key ingredients for long-term productivity. This systematic review examines the impact of employee development programs on productivity in the Saudi education sector, with particular attention to the mediating role of employee engagement. Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025 were systematically identified, screened, and synthesized. From an initial pool of 418 studies, 30 met the inclusion criteria and represented a range of methodologies and educational settings. The findings indicate that development programs significantly enhance employee productivity, especially when integrated with engagement strategies, empowerment, and professional support. These initiatives contribute to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover intentions, and improved institutional effectiveness. Furthermore, leadership practices, an organizational culture of learning, and alignment with strategic goals emerged as critical factors that amplify the effectiveness of development efforts. The review concludes that employee engagement is a key mechanism linking development programs to sustained productivity, and highlights the importance of supportive leadership, investment in lifelong learning, and the creation of engaging professional environments in fostering innovation and institutional growth