A Systematic Review for the Challenges of Total Quality Management Implementation in Service Quality of Private Universities

Abstract

Total Quality Management (TQM) has become a major concern in most institutions of higher learning as their success depends on quality of education provided as well as other services. This is because stakeholders such as scholars, students, researchers, educationists and policy makers among others are continuously expressing interest in this management philosophy. However, its implementation seems to face certain obstacles that can stand in the way of the production of quality graduates and provision of quality services. This paper seeks to explore the challenges of TQM implementation in Private Universities which if not addressed may affect the quality of education provided by these Universities.  It reviews literature on theories of total quality management and then goes ahead to explore the various challenges facing TQM implementation in universities across the globe. The challenges identified included; lack of management support and commitment, resistance to change as well as poor leadership among others. It is therefore important that universities establish how best to address these challenges which may ultimately affect service quality if not given due attention. Short of that, universities are at risk of poor service quality which may ultimately affect student enrollment and retention at these institutions.