1.0        INTRODUCTION

The College of Health, Yamfo strives to maintain for its staff and students an environment which is conducive to the life and work as well as reciprocated respect for the rights, duties and emotional peculiarities of each individual.  Grievances are bound to occur owing to misunderstanding, miscommunication, suspicion of unfairness and little problems which have been taken for granted.  Resolving these problems informally may not always be easy; therefore, easily accessible and fair grievance resolution procedures have been developed to guide conflict resolutions and management in the College. 

1.1       PURPOSE OF POLICY

This policy deals with the steps used in managing staff and students grievances.  It shows the process to be followed when a grievance is lodged, and also provide guidelines on the approach to be used.  This is to ensure an appropriate course of action and to facilitate a fair and confidential resolution.

1.2       SCOPE

This policy applies to staff and students of the College.  It deals with complaints that emerge from a staff and student’s present or past interaction with the College.

1.3        POLICY STATEMENT

The College is committed to serving students and staff with excellent education. Nevertheless, where contrary experiences at the College give causes, staff/students are free to register their concerns or grievances.

The College is fully aware of the vital role of proper communication in the resolution of grievances of staff and students.  It therefore deems it necessary to remain open and fair.  It hopes to continuously improve itself by doing so.

In addition, the College ensures transparent, fair and prompt procedures for addressing grievances and appeals carried out based on the tenets of natural justice to ensure equal and fair treatment of all parties within a reasonable time frame and supportive environment.

1.4        APPLICABILITY

The policy applies to all staff and students, faculty and staff members of the College, and to issues involving other employees, students or third parties who have a direct relationship with the College such as probationary, temporary, and part-time worker. 

1.5       DEFINITION OF TERMS

Grievance:  A grievance is an allegation made by someone, which is based on specific facts that there has been a misunderstanding and misinterpretation of issues.  The rationale behind the process is to settle and resolve the issue.

Staff:  All full-time employees including part-time workers, students, faculty members are all considered as staff for the purposes of this policy.

Student:  Anyone who has been admitted (regular, sandwich), and upon acceptance has deposited money and is in the process of enrolling, or registering.  It also includes those who have paid tuition fees at the time when the alleged grievance occurred.  Former students may lodge complaints about issues related to their previous involvement with the College.

Respondent:  H/she is the person against whom a grievance has been lodged.