Internal communication and organisational commitment a study of management and staff relationship at Tamale Technical University

Abstract

The study evaluated the nature of internal communication as well as role of internal communication within Tamale Technical University's management in enhancing lecturers' work commitment. Data was drawn from multiple sources, specifically through the use of interviews and focus group discussions. The models of organisational commitment and social exchange theory formed the theoretical foundation of the study and particularly helped to properly contextualise the research. The researcher examined the nature of internal communication at Tamale Technical University in terms of the direction of communication, formality of communication, and the scope of communication. The study found that information flow at Tamale Technical University was primarily downward (superiors to subordinates), upward (subordinates to superiors), and horizontal (officials to officials of the same rank). The study also discovered that internal communication between management and lecturers was used as a mechanism to motivate lecturers, maintain discipline, and create a healthy employee-management relationship. Finally, the study found that when employees believe their employer cares about them, they feel obligated to repay the favour by making voluntary contributions that benefit the organisation. As a result, internal communication was used at Tamale Technical University to build employee recognition, trust, and respect for all. Furthermore, the study suggests that, in addition to internal communication being a continuous practice and beneficial to the university's day-to-day administration, the university should prioritise grapevine communication because it fosters a sense of solidarity among employees who share and discuss their ideas. Similarly, university administration should promote upward communication as a useful source of information that can aid in corporate decision-making.