Public Relations and Organisational Corporate Image in the Face of Rising Inflation: A Study of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri

Abstract

This study examined the influence of rising inflation on perceptions, challenges, and   expectations of stakeholders as well as the public relations strategies employed in response to   inflation-related challenges by Federal Polytechnic Nekede. The stakeholder theory was the theoretical underpinning for this study. This study adopted a quantitative research design using survey method. The population of this study was made up of 867 students of Mass Communication Department, Federal Polytechnic Nekede. The sample size for this study is 266 using Roger Wimmer online sample size calculator. Proportionate sampling technique was used for this study. The study found that 45.1% of the stakeholders of Federal Polytechnic, Nekede faced specific challenges directly linked to inflation, indicating that the economic climate has tangible repercussions for a significant segment of the institution's stakeholders. This study recommends that the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede should enhance communication channels (newsletters, social media, town hall meetings) to strategically convey positive institutional information and proactive measures, implement measures for increased financial transparency, such as detailed financial reports, clear budget information, and accessible financial data as well as proactively improve student support services, including flexible fee payment schedules to address the impact of rising inflation on students and foster a positive corporate image.