Managing records at higher education institutions: A case study of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg Campus

Abstract

Records constitute one of the key resources of an organization that must be managed just like the other corporate resources such as finance and human resources. Models exist for the proper management of records. Nevertheless, there is a proposition that universities are not managing their records in accordance with established principles and procedures. The purpose of this study was to investigate records management practices and procedures at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in order to find out if the University was managing its records in accordance with established principles and procedures. To accomplish its objectives, the study adopted a survey approach with a self-administered questionnaire as the primary tool of data collection. The results of the study showed that the University of KwaZulu-Natal did not manage its records in accordance with established procedures for records management. Based on the findings, the study recommended the development and implementation of records management policies and guidelines for the effective management of University records.