CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN THE EFFECTIVE ADMINISTRATION OF UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This paper explored conflict management strategies essential for the effective administration of universities. Over the years, universities have faced persistent crises involving conflicts between academic staff and administrators, students and lecturers, students and university authorities, as well as non-academic staff and management. These conflicts have fostered distrust, hostility, and inefficiency, undermining smooth institutional operation. The paper emphasized that effective conflict management depends on understanding and addressing the needs and interests of all parties involved, ensuring mutual satisfaction with outcomes. It highlighted the various types and causes of conflicts in university settings, noting that unresolved disputes often hinder progress and disrupt academic activities. Furthermore, the study identified different strategies for managing such conflicts, emphasizing the need for proactive, flexible, and context-based approaches. The paper concluded that conflict management is vital to achieving educational goals and maintaining industrial harmony. It was therefore suggested among others that; university administrators should identify the actual causes and nature of the conflict among the staff before implementing management strategies. Relying on a single approach is discouraged; instead, administrators should apply a combination of strategies suited to each situation.  Ultimately, effective conflict resolution fosters cooperation, enhances productivity, and strengthens the overall administration of higher education institutions.