Influence of internal communication on organizational performance of school hub libraries: Evidence from Zanzibar

Jaafari M. Mwadini; Athumani S.  Samzugi; Lilian D. Isowe; Abbas M. Omar

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.29

Authors

Jaafari M. Mwadini Open University of Tanzania Author
Athumani S. Samzugi Open University of Tanzania Author
Lilian D. Isowe Open University of Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7256-6749
Abbas M. Omar Zanzibar University, Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6701-5336

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.29

Keywords:

Internal Communication, Organizational Performance, School Hub Libraries, Zanzibar

Abstract

This study examined the contribution of internal communication to organizational performance in Zanzibar School Hub Libraries. Specifically, the study assessed the availability of internal communication infrastructure, examined communication tools used by staff and management, and identified key challenges affecting effective internal communication. The study is guided by the Organizational Information Theory. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data collected through structured questionnaires with qualitative data obtained from semi-structured interviews. The study population for this research was comprised of librarians, teachers, computer lab technicians, science lab technicians and language lab technicians. A total of 128 respondents participated in filling out the questionnaires, while 10 individuals involved in interviews. A purposive sampling technique and a simple random sampling technique were used to select respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that internal communication infrastructure and tools were generally available but inconsistently structured and utilized. While 62.5% of school-hub staff agreed that existing infrastructure supported timely information sharing, only 25.8% reported the presence of well-structured internal communication systems and 77.3% indicated that communication infrastructure enhanced collaboration and teamwork. The regression results revealed that organizational communication policy, information quality, and feedback mechanisms significantly influence organizational performance. However, challenges such as delayed information flow, limited digital skills, inconsistent use of digital platforms, and occasional technical disruptions constrained optimal organizational performance. The study concludes that effective internal communication significantly enhances coordination, teamwork, and service delivery in Zanzibar School Hub Libraries. It recommends strengthening structured internal communication systems, investing in reliable digital infrastructure, enhancing staff digital literacy and communication skills through regular training, and promoting a culture of two-way communication and feedback to improve organizational performance.

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