Conflict Resolution in Nigerian Universities: The University of Lagos Experience
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Date
2006-12-11
Authors
Onyene, V. E.
Oladipo, S. A.
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Publisher
Journal of Educational Foundation, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Abstract
University size, location, students' population, mission, specialization, governance, and prevailing unionization sentiments are contributory factors to institutional conflicts. What triggers conflicts perhaps, even large crises (or dispute) in one campus may be inconceivable in another. However, University based conflicts share a lot in common to be universally understood. Conflict development is a circumstance which increases the chances of inter group or interpersonal interest disagreements. The phenomenon of student unrest is however fast becoming an integral part of life in Nigeria university campuses. This paper examines conflict resolution Techniques which incorporates the mediation efforts of the students, parents, teachers, the university authority, government representatives and other stakeholders. It is against this premise that the need for decentralizing problem solving starts from the office of the Dean of Students Affairs to other relevant offices to maximise the benefits of various approaches as well as to minimise conflict on-set to the lowest possible level. The paper also establishes the need for universities to carve out a central conflict identification and resolution unit in order to either knip problems on-the-bud or ensure quick interactive encounter for resolution. This paper therefore proposes a systemic approach which implies giving wholistic combat to conflict-inducing factors. It further recommends that strategic decision points should be made explicit enough to students through meetings and student-management consultative forum in the universities.
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Citation
Onyene, V. E., & Oladipo, S. A. (2006). Conflict resolution strategies in Nigerian universities: The University of Lagos experience. Journal of Educational Foundation, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 1(2), 1–13.