Strategic Maintenance Planning for Engineering Workshops and Estate Departments: A Case Study of the University of Benin

Authors: *Okpighe, O.M., Nwanneka, F.E., Eshiet, M.A., Okoye, A.O. And Ariavie, G.O.

DOI Info: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21044956

ABSTRACT

This study explores the importance of strategic maintenance planning within the context of university engineering workshops and estate departments, using the University of Benin (UNIBEN) as a case study. These facilities, integral to academic and operational efficiency, face growing challenges from aging infrastructure, limited budgets, and insufficient planning, which impede learning, research, and sustainability. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using structured questionnaires for university personnel and external professionals, with responses weighted by role and experience. Analytical techniques included descriptive statistics, mode analysis, and Relative Importance Index (RII). Findings reveal a predominant reliance on reactive (RII = 0.80) and preventive maintenance (RII = 0.76) at UNIBEN, with limited adoption of predictive (RII = 0.60) and condition-based (RII = 0.56) strategies. This contrasts with external workshops, which showed higher application levels for advanced models and better maintenance training. The study identifies key barriers, including budgetary constraints and poor documentation, emphasizing the urgent need for digital tools like a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), continuous training, and data-driven frameworks to transition universities toward a proactive maintenance culture. Ultimately, the report provides strategic insights for enhancing infrastructure reliability, reducing operational costs, and improving educational outcomes in institutional environments.

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