Dr Emmanuel Emanghe Emanghe & Dr Michael Chukwudi Uzoigwe
Abstract
This study assessed the management of record keeping among administrators in public universities in Cross River State, Nigeria. Specifically, it investigated current practices, availability and functionality of record keeping infrastructures, professional competence of administrators by gender, institutional challenges, proposed improvement strategies, and gender-based perceptual differences. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and had a population of 302 administrators, out of which 210 were selected from the University of Calabar (Unical) and University of Cross River State (Unicross), using stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using a researchers-developed instrument titled Record Keeping Management Assessment Questionnaire (RKMAQ). The instrument had a reliability index of 0.84 determined through Cronbach Alpha method. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and independent t-test statistics. Results indicated, among others, that record keeping practices were outdated and largely manual; infrastructures were inadequate; and administrators lacked formal training in modern record management. Significant institutional challenges such as poor funding and weak policy frameworks were identified, alongside gender-based differences in perceptions of effectiveness. The study recommended the adoption of ICT-driven systems, continuous professional development, and institutional reforms for effective record keeping in public universities.