Enrolment Projection and Resource Allocation in Nigerian Universities: Implications for Educational Management

Abstract

This study examined the effect of enrolment projection on resource allocation in five public universities in South-South Nigeria: University of Benin, Ambrose Alli University, Delta State University, University of Calabar, and University of Uyo. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design with a sample of 250 respondents selected from the five universities. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that enrolment projection has a significant effect on the allocation of teaching staff, physical facilities and infrastructure, instructional materials and learning resources, and financial resources in the universities studied. The study concluded that enrolment projection is a critical tool for effective resource allocation in Nigerian universities. It was recommended that universities should develop robust enrolment projection models, align resource allocation with projected enrolment, and ensure regular monitoring and evaluation of resource utilisation.

Keywords: Enrolment projection, resource allocation, teaching staff, physical facilities, instructional materials, financial resources, educational planning, South-South Nigeria