Conflict of Interest and University Administrators

Abstract

The role of Administrators in the functioning, growth and development of any institution is of prime importance. Within the scheme of things, administrators play a critical role in the life of any University. The success of any institution therefore largely rests on the effectiveness and efficiency of Administrators. Unfortunately, little is known about how to recognise and deal with conflict of interest which is inevitable in the working life of any administrator. This phenomenon tends to make some administrators corrupt, inefficient, ineffective and unprofessional in the course of their work. This is a theoretical paper which delves into an area little known by some administrators in general and particularly, administrators in tertiary institutions in Ghana by looking at the Constitution of Ghana, 1992, and the guidelines for public officers. Moreover, the paper explains five principles outlined to help Administrators in dealing with conflict of interest. Specifically, the paper makes the point that managing conflict of interest must be the goal of all administrators in the 21^st century, because of the enormous benefits it brings to the institution when there is efficient and effective management. The benefits include that, it is ethical and a good practice; promotes fairness and reduces corruption; reduces the cost of doing business; promotes good public relations; promotes transparency and ensures leadership for the public good.

Keywords: conflict of interest, senior administrators, conflict, public officers, registrar