FACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS DELAY IN SOME SELECTED PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES OF CENTRAL AND SOUTH WEST ETHIOPIA

ABSTRACT Construction project delays remain a significant challenge both globally and within Ethiopia, often resulting in projects failing to meet their intended objectives in terms of time, cost, and quality. This study focuses on investigating the primary factors contributing to delays in construction projects at selected public universities in Central and South West Ethiopia, specifically Werabe, Jinka, and Bonga Universities. Despite substantial investments and strategic importance, these university construction projects have experienced persistent delays across various phases, adversely affecting institutional operations, escalating costs, and undermining stakeholder confidence. The main objectives of this research are to identify and analyze the key causes of construction delays, evaluate their impact on project performance, and propose practical solutions to mitigate these challenges. A descriptive and explanatory quantitative research design was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires distributed to 15 construction companies, three universities, and six consultant firms directly involved in these projects. Clustered and random sampling techniques ensured representative data collection, and the responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, and the Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings indicate that several interrelated factors contribute significantly to project delays. Among the most critical are adverse weather conditions, shortages and late delivery of materials, inaccurate estimation of project duration, discrepancies in design documents, financial constraints, and issues related to workforce commitment. These factors not only delay project completion but also lead to increased costs, reduced productivity, potential legal disputes, and negative impacts on the universities’ ability to fulfill their educational missions. The study’s results are intended to raise awareness among stakeholders, inform policy and strategy development, and provide actionable recommendations for improving the timely delivery of university construction projects. By addressing the identified delay factors, project stakeholders can enhance project management practices, reduce risks, and contribute to the successful completion of future construction initiatives in the region.