The Effect of Administrative Empowerment on the Application of Total Quality Man-agement in Algerian Universities: A Field Study at the University of Biskra

Abstract

     This study aimed to identify the effect of administrative empowerment on the application of Total Quality Management in the University of Biskra. To achieve this objective, the analytical method was adopted. The study population consisted of employees holding higher administrative supervisory positions (Dean of Faculty, Vice Dean, Head of Department, Deputy Head of Department); the total was 198 employees working at the University of Biskra. Due to their small number, the comprehensive survey method was used. A questionnaire was prepared and then checked for its validity and reliability. The study data were analyzed using SPSS program. Results revealed that the level of administrative empowerment at the University of Biskra was high, and that the university in question applied Total Quality Management to a high degree. The study results also showed that there was a significant statistical effect of the dimensions of administrative empowerment on the Total Quality Management in the university investigated at a significant level (α = 0.05), as it appeared that the element of effective communication was among the most important elements in administrative empowering that have an effect over the application of Total Quality Management in Biskra University. Based on these results, it was recommended that the university administration should give more powers to administrative levels. Conferences should also be held periodically to discuss present situation of implementing Total Quality Management and its results at the Algerian universities

Keywords: Administrative empowerment, Quality, Total Quality Management, Algerian University.