PROLIFERATION OF GRAPEVINE COMMUNICATION IN SOME TERTIARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE SOUTHEASTERN PART OF NIGERIA: ISSUES AND CAUSES.

Azunna-Dan, Peace O.
Keywords: Grapevine, Educational Institutions, Communication, Growth and Development.
Clifford University International Journal of Development Studies (CLUIJODS) 2023 3(1), 111 - 117. Published: December 2023

Abstract

This research takes a look at the concept of grapevine communication which describes an informal multidirectional flow of information between administration, staff and students of educational institutions. It seeks to x-ray the need not to discard grapevine in organizations as there can be facts which if used appropriately can contribute to the growth and development of such organizations. A survey was carried out in 10 different tertiary educational institutions in the south eastern part of Nigeria. The result was critically analyzed to determine the effect grapevine can have to an institution and it was observed that grapevine occurs because of ambiguity, lack of clarity and or when there are loopholes in the formal communication channel of an institution hence the need for educational institutions or organizations to checkmate grapevine by providing credible and easily accessible sources of important information, engaging the staff and students in a face-to-face discussion and as well use their formal channels to address issues raised through grapevine. Although grapevine has its cons such that it can: affect employment or students recruitment activities, soil the image or reputation of an education institution, provoke disintegration and the abuse of power. Its pros which include its ability to spread faster, as multidirectional communication, to improve teamwork and social relationship, if positively and effectively harnessed, can be of a great benefit to educational institutions.