Al-Hikmah University Journal

This paper examined Total Quality Management (TQM) Practices as a Strategy for Promoting Standards in Nigerian Private Universities. The study discussed: the concept of quality; the concept of total quality management; the theoretical framework on total quality management; total quality management measures; factors influencing the implementation of total quality management and standards in Nigerian private universities. It is clear that a lot still needs to be done, the National Universities Commission (NUC), needs to start thinking of quality and implementing appropriate quality programmes in the universities. Nigerian universities ought to look beyond the shores of the country for possible benchmarking to access their competence and performance. The benefit of the revitalization of education will lead to increased customer loyalty, better customer service, improve productivity, a committed and enthusiastic workforce, cost-effectiveness, increased profit, and satisfied customers. Based on the observations of this study, the following suggestions were advanced: TQM should be introduced immediately as a course in all Tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The course should not be restricted to any particular Faculty but should be a compulsory course for all students. This will enable every Nigerian graduate to have overall knowledge of the principle of TQM; the University should step up its own enlightenment campaign through seminars, workshops, and other publications; NUC may consider establishing an annual award for TQM. This will serve many purposes like encouraging continuous improvement, raising awareness, and removing the fear of change; there is an urgent need for institutions that have successfully implemented TQM to process and obtain certification, which should keep them on their toes to continuously improve their process.