Policy communication and organizational development in public universities in Uganda: a case study of lira university.

Abstract

This study examined how policy communication influences organizational development at Lira University. Specifically, it examined the policy communication strategies used by the University, analyzed the effectiveness of communication channels, and assessed the influence of policy communication on organizational development. A mixed-methods approach and descriptive research design were adopted. Data were collected from 60 university staff through questionnaires, seven Key Informant Interviews and two Focus Group Discussions involving 16 participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings established that Lira University uses various policy communication strategies, including staff and departmental meetings, workshops, sensitization sessions, emails, circulars and memos. Policy communication was generally perceived as timely, clear and understandable. Multiple communication channels were used, with email emerging as the most preferred channel, selected by 51.7% of respondents, followed by staff meetings at 25.0%. The study further found that effective policy communication enhances policy awareness, understanding, compliance, coordination, accountability, staff performance and organizational change. However, challenges remained regarding feedback, clarification, accessibility and communication resources. The study concludes that policy communication at Lira University is functional but requires continuous improvement. It recommends strengthening interactive communication, adopting an integrated multi-channel approach, simplifying policy information, ix improving feedback mechanisms, and strengthening access to policy documents. Overall, effective, timely, clear and participatory policy communication is essential for successful policy implementation and organizational development at Lira University.