Sociocultural Factors and Bureaucratic Practices in Universities in Ghana

Authors

  • SOLOMON KOFI AMOAH UNIVERSITY OF GHANA, LEGON
  • STEPHEN AFRANIE UNIVERSITY OF GHANA, LEGON

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18533/journal.v3i5.472

Keywords:

bureaucracy, sociocultural values, managerial practices

Abstract

Max Weber, one of the pioneers in bureaucratic organisational studies believes in the ultimate triumph of bureaucracy over the collegial culture of universities. This paper argues that rather than ultimate triumph of bureaucracy over the collegial culture of universities (Weber 1947), the interests of universities would be better served when the bureaucratic culture is designed to accommodate some core socio-cultural expectations of organizational members, without compromising productivity.  The research examined the implications of some selected sociocultural factors for bureaucratic practices in selected universities in Ghana through a mix method approach. The findings show that, the authority structures of the two universities typify the Weberian Ideal type bureaucracy with   hierarchical culture and standardized rules and procedures for carrying out every task. This notwithstanding, the societal culture was found to be influential in shaping the bureaucratic behaviour and conducts of organizations’ members. The paper aims at bringing to the fore the strength of the informal structures in reshaping bureaucratic culture and work behaviour, and the need to consider socio-cultural contexts in designing bureaucratic organizations.

Author Biographies

  • SOLOMON KOFI AMOAH, UNIVERSITY OF GHANA, LEGON

    TEACHING ASSISTANT (SENIOR STAFF)

    DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY

  • STEPHEN AFRANIE, UNIVERSITY OF GHANA, LEGON

    SENIOR LECTURER

    DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY

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Published

2014-05-31

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Section

Article

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