Moonlighting as a growing phenomenon: a case study of a Congolese Christian University

Abstract

This paper explores why professors at a rural Christian university—where traditionally moonlighting was not allowed– moonlight and the impact this practice has. A qualitative case study with semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion with students and faculty was used to understand the phenomenon at a Christian university in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Findings suggest that moonlighting occurs for financial reasons, as a hedging mechanism against the uncertainty of the future, as a way to take advantage of available opportunities, for networking, for improvement of professors’ intellectual capacity, and for academic ranking at the national level. The phenomenon results in superficial teaching, limited personal contact with students, and reduced concentration on daily teaching activities. In addition, it increases the risk of burnout and reduces the time spent with the family. The study has implications for human resources management and quality of education as well.