The role of organizational communication in enhancing rapport between service providers and interest groups in higher learning institutions: A case study of the University of Zambia

Abstract

This Practical Attachment report is based on a PA that students carried out at UNZA The report has revealed the various problems that the institution experiences. Inadequate funding from government is the major source of problems. This has resulted into managements failure to meet some of its obligations objectives. Other problems are shortage of teaching staff and accommodation for both members of staff and students. This PA also identified other problems unrelated to funding. Some of these problems were due to organizational / management weaknesses. The members of staff are demotivated and do often exhibit a lackadaisical approach to their work. Above all, there is a lacuna in the institution's internal and external communication, this has led to mistrust of management by the workers. Strikes by all workers and riots by students have been identified as major 'weapons' for getting whatever they want from either management or the government. Strikes and riots have on many occasions led to premature closures. These problems have put UNZA's credibility at stake. Although there are all these problems, effective organisationsal communication can be used to reduce them and change the image of UNZA. A strong organizational and management base can change the operations of the institution. It is for this reason that the students recommended that management should involve all stakeholders/interest groups in the planning of various projects for the University. This should be done at each stage. There should also be smooth flow of information between management and workers, management and students, management and the government and the government and students. All business ventures should be reorganized to run profitably. These can only be achieved through effective organizational communication.