Decision-making in the shadows? Challenges and prospects of committee systems in higher education institutions in Ghana

Nasir Yaqub Entsie; Clement Owusu-Cole; Comfort Armah; Umar Farouk Moomin; Margaret Darkoa

doi:10.51867/scimundi.5.1.15

Authors

Nasir Yaqub Entsie University of Cape Coast, Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6004-4476
Clement Owusu-Cole Department of Education Studies, Presbyterian College of Education, Abetifi-Kwahu, Ghana https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5052-0124
Comfort Armah Directorate of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5194-2055
Umar Farouk Moomin Protocol Section, Directorate of Public Affairs, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4440-3309
Margaret Darkoa Human Resource Unit, Presbyterian College of Education, Abetifi-Kwahu, Ghana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/scimundi.5.1.15

Keywords:

Challenges, Committee System, Decision-Making, Higher Education, Prospects, Public Universities

Abstract

This study examined the dynamics of the Committee System in Management Decisions (CSMD) within a public university in Ghana, focusing on both its limitations and potential for reform. Grounded in systems theory, the research employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach. The initial quantitative phase drew on 792 valid responses from a diverse group of stakeholders, including academic and administrative senior members, senior staff, and individuals serving on various statutory committees. Participants were selected through purposive and proportionate stratified random sampling to ensure broad institutional representation. Data on perceived challenges and possible improvements were gathered via structured questionnaires and analysed using independent samples t-tests. The subsequent qualitative phase involved 20 semi-structured interviews with committee chairpersons, active committee members, and staff not involved in committee work, with the responses subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed several systemic bottlenecks impeding the optimal functioning of CSMDs. These included insufficient logistical support, lack of adequate motivation for committee members, and undue influence from managerial levels. Nevertheless, the study also identified viable prospects for revitalizing committee effectiveness, notably through the integration of digital platforms, improved procedural coordination, and capacity building. It recommends strengthening digital infrastructure, streamlining logistical procedures, recognizing committee work through incentives, and ensuring regular feedback between committees and leadership. Emphasis is also placed on addressing workload imbalances and supporting staff well-being. While the CSMD continues to serve as a critical pillar of participatory governance within the university context, its success is contingent upon institutional commitment to transparency, structured engagement, and resource provision.

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