Research article · 2026
RECORDS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN ENGINEERING DEPARTMENTS IN BAUCHI STATE METROPOLIS HIGHER INSTITUTIONS
Abstract
Purpose: This study examined the Records Management Practices in Engineering Departments in Bauchi State Metropolis Higher Institutions comprising Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Federal Polytechnic Bauchi (FPB), and Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP).
Design/Methodology/Approach: The objectives of the study were to identify, types of records are created in the engineering departments of higher institutions in Bauchi Metropolis, and to examine records management practices in terms of Selection, Acquisition, Organization, Preservation and Dissemination. A qualitative research design was adopted, and purposive sampling technique was used to select six (6) participants comprising Heads of Departments and departmental secretaries who provided both academic and administrative perspectives. Data were collected through in-depth interviews.
Findings: The findings revealed that the engineering departments maintained various categories of records, including students’ academic records, staff records, financial documents, departmental memos, and correspondence with regulatory agencies. Records management practices were largely manual, with limited integration of digital technologies. Existing management strategies included filing systems, record categorization, and physical storage facilities. Major challenges identified were inadequate digitization, insufficient storage facilities, lack of formal records management policies, and inadequate staff training. The study concludes that records management practices in the engineering departments of the selected institutions remain inadequate and inconsistent despite the critical role of records in institutional administration.
Originality/Value: The study recommends the adoption of digital records management systems, regular staff training, strict implementation of records management policies, and increased investment in ICT infrastructure to enhance the efficiency, accessibility, preservation, and sustainability of records in tertiary institutions.
Implication: Despite the centrality of records to effective administration, teaching, learning, and research in engineering departments, the lack of professional record managers, absence of formal policies, limited ICT infrastructure, and inadequate staff training constitute significant constraints.
Keywords: Records Management Practices, Engineering Departments, Bauchi State Metropolis
Paper type: Empirical Research
Keywords
Records Management Practices, Engineering Departments, Bauchi State Metropolis Paper type: Empirical Research
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