The ethical implications of coronavirus (COVID-19) on the workplace culture at the University of KwaZulu-Natal: a case study of the new arts building.

Abstract

Extensive scholarship exists on the impact of COVID-19 on higher education institutions globally.However, limited attention has been directed toward understanding how these disruptions have specifically reshaped workplace culture, staff morale, communication practices, and daily operations within this particular context. This study was motivated by the need to critically examine how pandemic-induced changes continue to influence staff experiences and organisational functioning in the post-pandemic period. Anchored in a thorough literature review and guided by the ethical theory of consequentialism, the research evaluated the outcomes of institutional decisions and practices implemented during and after the pandemic. A qualitative research approach was adopted, employing an exploratory case study design focusing on staff members operating in the New Arts Building at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Purposive sampling was used to select twelve participants, and data were generated through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that the pandemic has significantly altered workplace culture, resulting in both positive and negative outcomes. Participants reported decreased staff morale, weakened communication, reduced workplace vibrancy, and heightened emotional strain during thepandemic. While institutional support mechanisms were in place, several shortcomings, such as inconsistent communication, inadequate engagement strategies, and limited responsiveness, wereidentified. Although some improvements have been observed in the post-COVID-19 environment, persistent challenges remain, including lingering stress, reduced interpersonal interaction, and incomplete efforts to rebuild workplace cohesion. From a consequentialist standpoint, institutional actions were ethically insufficient where negative consequences outweighed intended benefits. The study recommends strengthening communication structures, enhancing staff support and engagement practices, and prioritising ethical decision-making to rebuild a positive and sustainable workplace culture. Directions for further research are also provided.Keywords: COVID-19, workplace culture, ethical implications, consequentialism, staff morale, communication, University of KwaZulu-Natal.