What do you do if unresolved conflicts are jeopardizing the future of Higher Education?

It’s usually not bias in identifying and resolving issues that’s the overarching problem. It’s a mindset that one cannot maintain a core self-interest and be transparent at the same time. Whereas the (Covey) principles of effective practices are well recognized, the business practice and tactics in America promotes non-transparency in negotiating and identifying relevant issues, even when there’s a common mission. America and Americans prefer a hierarchy with distinct divides as opposed to a team and teamwork, which it explicitly seeks to develop and promote as an important organizational goal. As a result, neither the administration nor the ones being administered trust each other.

Some options are 1) provide conflict resolution training for faculty, staff, and administrators to equip them with the skills needed to manage and resolve conflicts constructively. And 2) offer mediation services or establish a conflict resolution committee to facilitate discussions and negotiations between parties in conflict, aiming for mutually satisfactory resolutions. Before starting the dialogue it is important to clearly define roles, responsibilities, and expectations for all members of the academic community to minimize misunderstandings and potential sources of conflict.

Implementation is the bridge between planning and results. Transparency is key as you execute agreed-upon solutions, ensuring stakeholders are informed and engaged. Anticipate adjustments and remain open to feedback to refine your approach. Whether it's policy changes, communication strategies, or resource allocation, consistency and inclusivity are paramount. By embracing transparency and adaptability, you pave the way for successful implementation and lasting impact.

I remember that the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have been at loggerheads many times. Sometimes, These loggerheads which will always result in industrial actions that last for months disrupt the academic calendar of Nigerian Universities. It is one of the USPs of private universities in the country, the fact that there won't be a disruption to their academic calendar due to the strike. The parties involved need to come to the table and reach a conclusion so that academic institutions will continue to operate smoothly.

Fostering culture REQUIRES diverse and culturally sensitive perspectives, because America is an alloy with numerous different fundamental elements thrust together into a melting pot. But hierarchies is America are Paradoxically and perversely homogenous. There’s a longstanding surreptitious method to this makeup of the executive class, but its root causes are never publicly discussed.