Organizational conflicts and commitment of staff in higher institutions of learning: a case of Kyambogo University.

Abstract

The study sought to investigate the relationship between organizational conflicts and commitment of staff at Kyambogo University. The study was based on the following research objectives; to establish the relationship between interpersonal conflicts and commitment of staff at Kyambogo University, to assess the relationship between intergroup conflicts and commitment of staff at Kyambogo University and to examine the relationship between intra-group conflicts and commitment of staff at Kyambogo University. The study adopted a cross sectional correlation survey design and quantitative and qualitative approaches. In total, a sample of 281 respondents was used for this particular study. The data collection methods used were the questionnaire forms and interview guide, and collected data was analyzed using Pearson correlation statistic. The- study- finding revealed that: there is a positive significant relationship between interpersonal conflict and staff commitment, there is a positive significant relationship between intergroup conflict and staff commitment and lastly intra-group conflict and staff commitment are significantly positively related. It was concluded that (i) conflicts are very common in KyU and these mainly are caused by selfish interests and sabotage. It was further observed that inadequate teaching resources cause intergroup conflicts. The resources whenever are inadequate clashes may be witnessed. Causes of inter group conflicts range from delayed pay to promotion. Some members block the renewal of contracts for their colleagues because of intergroup conflicts. It was recommended that: An arbitration committee should be put in place to mediate between the different conflicts that take place at the university among staff members. A fully fledged counseling department for staff members should be put in place to render counseling services to different members of staff. Primary task of the Counseling Department is to help people keep them cool; manage their stress levels, their anger, and their emotions to the best of the counselor's ability. There is need to change the staff policy concerning promotion, payment, extra-load and appointment and use of University facilities like vehicles and houses. There is need for the various warring groups in the higher institutions of learning in Uganda to build trust. Group conflicts can easily be overcome when the various members in such groups begin working together.