Exploring triggers that give rise to stakeholder conflict at institutions of higher learning: a case study of Walter Sisulu University

Abstract

The phenomenon of conflict management in institutions of higher learning is complex, multifaceted, and highly disputable. Conflict is unavoidable and inevitable in the workplace and universities are not immune, as conflict is viewed as a leading source of internecine discord. The nature of stakeholders' expectations creates a stimulating milieu of ferment in any academic environment because conflict is viewed as that trigger of disruption in institutions of higher learning. Conflict not only affects the entire culture of teaching and learning in a comprehensive institution of higher learning, but also affects the academic calendar of the institution and has disparaging reputational ramifications with fraternal institutions which are also competing in the same academic space, not forgetting its major sponsor (government). This empirical paper explored the triggers that generated conflict amongst the stakeholders of institutions of higher learning, but circumscribed its locus to Walter Sisulu University and its five campuses, which are spread across the Eastern Cape, each with its own set of dynamics, students, personnel, management and leadership styles. This mixed methodological study was conducted with over 180 respondents across the university, and used conceptual and relational content analysis techniques to analyse the data obtained through a structured questionnaire. The findings highlighted five major triggers that give rise to conflicts, escalation of strikes and demonstration at Walter Sisulu University and the findings evoke comparisons with other similar institutions of higher learning. Recommendations in this study include specific conflict management styles appropriate for handling various conflicts at institutions of higher learning.

To cite: Lukman, Y., Balkaran, S. & Gobingca, Z. (2019). Exploring triggers that give rise to stakeholder conflict at institutions of higher learning: a case study of Walter Sisulu University. Journal of Management & Administration (2019/1), 121–142. https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC-1646d8ea8a