Effectiveness of student unions in conflict resolution in public universities: a study of the university of Zambia and the Copperbelt university from 2015-2017.
Date
2022-07-04
Authors
Kabwe, Simeo
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The study explored the effectiveness of student unions in conflict resolutions in public universities: a study of the University of Zambia and the Copperbelt university from 2015-2017. In the study, there was a great need to understand the ways in which university administration make student feel the sense of ownership of the University, how the same administration pay attention to student Union, and the suggested ways to improve the effectiveness of student unions in conflict resolutions in Public universities in Zambia.
The research design used in the study was a descriptive survey design which aimed at obtaining information from representatives of the targeted population. The study employed qualitative approach that used the following research instruments to collect data: questionnaires and one-on-one interview guides. The sample size for the study comprised 2 deans of students, 8 students, 6 student union representatives from both UNZA and CBU, 2 deputy vice chancellors, 2 lecturer Disciplinary committee members, 2 representatives from Ministry of Higher Education and 2 Police representatives. This made the total number of sample size to be 24. The collected data was analyzed according to the emerging themes.
The findings of the study established that, student unions in public universities in Zambia are not effective in conflict resolutions. Among other revealed reasons causing ineffectiveness of student unions include: lack of effective Dialogue and Communication, Lack of training and basic skills in conflict management by student unions, Political interference, new changes in University, delay in payments of meal allowances, lack of mentorship from older unions and often the long procedure before a decision is taken even in urgent issues.
To improve the effectiveness of student union in conflict resolution in public universities in Zambia, the study recommends that, there be an effective and efficient dialogical communication and cooperation among stakeholders, student unions operate without political interference and control, and setting up some training before taking up office by student union so to build their capacity in conflict management. The paying of student meal and other allowances adheres to the schedule of the academic calendar.
Description
Thesis
Keywords
Universities and colleges--Student unions. , Universities conflict resolution.