ABSTRACT

Conflict is inevitable in all organizations and the university being a center of learning, with diverse needs is not left out. This qualitative research project embarks on an in-depth exploration of conflict management within the Faculty of Management Science at the esteemed University of Benin, situated in the vibrant academic landscape of Nigeria. Grounded in a  qualitative methodology, primarily utilizing semi-structured face-to-face interviews as the principal mode of data collection, this study delves into multifaceted dimensions of conflict among non-academics. The study aimed to determine what causes conflict among non-academics, the  conflict management styles used by individual to handle conflict and to explore whether individual conflict management styles differ by gender among non-academics. Through in-depth interviews, a rich tapestry of insight emerged revealing the conflict management styles used among non-academics. Participants shared their experiences, perspective, and reflections on conflict that occurred in their place of work and offered a nuanced view of how they were able to manage it. The research identifies and dissects the causes of conflict among non-academics in the workplace. These causes include poor management, individual personality, poor communication, and difference in view-points. Furthermore, the study investigates the specific challenges and limitation of individual conflict management. Findings from this research highlight the importance of conflict management in the workplace. In conclusion, this project underscores the pivotal role of conflict management in the Faculty of Management science at the University of Benin, Nigeria, and emphasizes its potential to influence the non-academic landscape and holistic growth if its stakeholders.