An Assessment of Crisis Communication Preparedness in Selected National Polytechnics in Kenya

This study evaluated crisis communication preparedness in Kenyan national polytechnics in four institutions located in Kisumu, Kakamega, Nairobi, and Kiambu Counties. The study aimed to assess the readiness of crisis communication teams, the effectiveness of communication messages and support documents, stakeholder identification and communication channels, and the existence and review of crisis communication plans and policies. Using a descriptive research design and census sampling, survey data was collected from 72 administrators (Principals, Deputy Principals, Registrars, Deans, and Heads of Departments) via Google Forms and complimented with documentary research. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency distributions and percentages, to identify the prevalence of crisis communication preparedness across the selected polytechnics. Findings revealed significant gaps in preparedness as crisis communication teams were ineffective and messages were scarce. Communication channels used to reach key stakeholders did not disseminate information fast and widely leading to misinformation, trust erosion and stakeholder disengagement. Formal crisis communication plans and policies existed in some cases but were rarely updated. Additionally, weak enforcement strategies and limited leadership commitment further debilitated the implementation of crisis communication efforts. The study recommends establishing trained crisis communication teams with defined roles and developing and updating crisis communication plans, policies, and messages. Regular training and strengthening stakeholder engagement and collaboration may also play a major role in mitigating damages, and building reputation. Lastly, adopting modern digital technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) can re-engineer the crisis communication process. These measures can bolster the stability and resilience at the National polytechnics in Kenya and TVET sector as a whole by ensuring timely and effective responses to crises.