Conflict management in the workplace : a case study in a technical and vocational education and training college in Mpumalanga Province

Abstract

The research study aims to investigate the ways in which conflict within a certain Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province can be effectively managed. Based on research discussed in this report, the selected College is seen as representative (i.e. a case study) of most TVET Colleges in Mpumalanga. Currently, this College’s students, lecturers, senior management team, and central office staff members are experiencing ongoing conflict on a variety of issues. Furthermore, the conflict management methods used by the College’s senior management team and junior staff members have failed to resolve these issues, resulting in mismanagement and poor productivity levels. The present study utilised a qualitative research approach, with a case study, supported by an interpretivist worldview. Purposeful sampling allowed for the collection of data from seven participants, based on their accessibility and interest in participating in the research. All participants engaged in semi-structured interviews for the study. Document analysis was done of the departmental policy guides utilised by the institution in Mpumalanga TVET Colleges. The study found that conflict on campuses like the one investigated was due to a number of contributing factors. It was determined that these contributing factors need to be managed in order for TVET campuses to be viable and achieve their objective of preparing students for the working world. With staff participation in College developed conflict management training and commitment to resolving conflict, together with proper direction from DHET policies, conflict within this environment can be effectively managed.