Universities In Kenya Research Articles

Nyerere’s Philosophy of Education for Self-Reliance and Its Implications for Enhancing the Socio-Economic Dimension of Current Kenyan University Education

While considerable attention has been devoted to exploring the potential of higher education in driving economic development, comparatively less focus has been directed towards its role in nurturing social imperatives associated with education. In the same vein, the economic benefits of a university degree in Kenya have been emphasised, while the social relevance of serving society has not received enough attention. In order to strengthen the social and economic paradigms of higher education in Kenya, the article examine the unique contribution of Nyerere's philosophy of education for self-reliance in the realm of African educational philosophies. The purpose of this study was to analyse what educational implications Kenyan universities can adopt from Nyerere's education for self-reliance philosophy using a literature-based research approach. The methodology of the study used was a multifaceted technique that comprised a literature review, conceptual analysis, a comprehensive content analysis and triangulation for evaluating relevant books, research studies, scholarly works and official papers about the socio-economic role of university education and Nyerere's philosophy of education. The study's findings indicated that the Nyerere educational philosophy, which is characterized by its invaluable lessons on the roles of the teacher, curriculum development, and the purpose of university education, may have beneficial implications on Kenyan university education. The socio-economic dimensions of university education emphasize enhancing society through problem-solving, community engagement, and career-oriented learning. The study also underscored the vital need for training for jobs in both white-collar and blue-collar fields by universities, the incorporation of problem-solving skills relevant to the 21st century, on-going professional development, and benchmarking. These recommendations could be the cornerstone of socio-economic education reforms at Kenyan universities, which could prepare its youth for the dynamic opportunities of the twenty-first century, positioning Kenya as a forerunner in the global advancement of socio-economic dimension of university education.

Institutional frameworks that guide research integrity and security towards protection of IP and management of technology transfer in universities in Kenya

Kenya’s higher education system is expanding at a very rapid rate. This is reflected in the increasing number of public and private universities, the expansion of existing universities, and the proliferation of online education services. Further, these universities have been increasingly expected to transcend their conventional teaching and research missions to contribute directly and indirectly to solving social and environmental challenges and generate knowledge of economic relevance to society. The teaching and research missions of a university are important, especially on a continent whose population is young and growing rapidly. Demand for higher education is likely to remain high.

EFFECTS OF RAINWATER HARVESTING PRACTICES ON BIOMASS YIELD AND MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS OF SORGHUM (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) IN SEMI-ARID KITUI COUNTY, KENYA

<p><strong>Background</strong>: Sorghum is an important source of fodder in the semi-arid areas of Kenya. However, its biomass yield has remained low due to the low soil moisture content which is associated with low rainfall. <strong> Objective:</strong> To evaluate the synergistic effects of combining rainwater harvesting practices on biomass yield and the morphometric traits of sorghum in semi-arid Kitui County. <strong>Methodology</strong>: The study was conducted in a randomized complete block design under rainfed conditions between March and August 2021 at the Research Farm of South Eastern Kenya University. It had twelve treatments, including three farming systems (conventional flat planting, ridge and furrow, and zai pits) with three soil mulching types (transparent plastic film mulch, black plastic film mulch, and grass mulch). The farming systems without mulching were used as control treatments. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and means were separated using Fisher’s protected Least Significant Difference test at 0.05 %. <strong>Results:</strong> The zai pits with black plastic film mulch and flat planting with grass mulch had the highest and lowest moisture content of 68.65% and 52.5% respectively compared to flat planting. The highest biomass yield was observed in ridge-furrow with black plastic film mulch (3283.33kg ha-<sup>1</sup>) and ridge–furrow with transparent plastic film mulch (3266.03) and was not significantly different. The lowest biomass yield was recorded in conventional flat planting and zai pits and was not significantly different. In all treatments, there was a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in morphometric traits. <strong>Implications: </strong>The farming system and the type of soil mulching determined the increase of soil moisture content, biomass yield, and morphometric traits. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Combining ridge-furrow and black plastic mulch is recommended to improve the biomass yield of sorghum in semi-arid Kitui County, and other areas with similar agroecological conditions.</p>

Political Staff Promotions, Vice Chancellor’s Leadership Style and Performance of Private Universities in Kenya

This study investigated the relationship between political staff promotions, the vice chancellor's leadership style, and the performance of private universities in Kenya, highlighting their significant roles in shaping the educational landscape. Despite the renowned flexibility, autonomy, and competitiveness of private universities, these institutions in Kenya encountered challenges due to political staff promotions and leadership dynamics, potentially impacting their performance and standing in the competitive educational sector. The research was prompted by concerns over the suboptimal performance of private universities in Kenya, with issues such as quality of education, financial constraints, fierce competition, and governance problems being key contributing factors. The study aimed to explore the effects of political staff promotions and the leadership style of vice chancellors on the performance of these institutions, seeking to understand the dynamics influencing their success or shortcomings. Employing Transformational Leadership Theory and Resource Based View Theory as its foundation, the research utilized a descriptive design for an in-depth analysis. Data were collected from a purposively selected sample of five prominent private universities in Kenya through questionnaires and interviews targeting vice chancellors, deans, and lecturers. This methodological approach facilitated a detailed examination of the research variables and their interrelations. The findings indicated that political staff promotions had insignificant impact on university performance, with a non-significant p-value of 0.666 (B = -0.174), suggesting that political considerations, while present, did not substantially affect institutional effectiveness. In contrast, the vice chancellor's leadership style showed a significant positive correlation with university performance, evidenced by a significant p-value of 0.020 (B = 0.475), indicating the role of effective leadership in driving institutional success. This underlined the potential of strong, visionary leadership to guide private universities towards higher levels of excellence and competitiveness. The study recommends a focus on leadership development, the implementation of transparent promotion processes, and efforts to improve teaching quality and infrastructure. By addressing these areas, private universities in Kenya could strengthen their foundations, better navigate existing challenges, and seize opportunities for ongoing improvement and significant contributions to the wider educational sector. Keywords: Leadership style, university performance, political staff promotions, higher education management, private universities in Kenya

Role of Employee Commitment in Total Quality Management on Performance of Institutions of Higher Learning in Kenya

Employee commitment is one of the common thematic areas for TQM in the service sector. It is crucial in fostering a sense of purpose, dedication, and alignment with the organization's mission and values. Since organization performance is linked to product quality and depends on its employees' dedication, organizations seeking competitive advantages through TQM must critically examine the levels of employee commitment. The universities in sub-Sahara Africa face elevated environmental dynamism in providing quality education. Due to conceptual gaps in the studies on employee commitment to university education in Kenya, the study evaluated the influence of employee commitment on the performance goals of private universities in Kenya. The study targeted seventeen (17) privately chartered universities founded by religious-based institutions in Kenya and utilized descriptive research design. The study censused 17 heads of administrative sections, functional departments and academic sections and used questionnaires as the primary data collection tool. Cronbach's Alpha reliability testing indicated that the instrument achieved scale reliability. The study used both descriptive and inferential analysis, and the results indicated that performance goals positively correlated with employee commitment (r = 0.670, p < 0.05) and explained 45.82 % variance in performance goals with an effect size; β1 = 0.67697 (t = 12.97, p< 0.05). The findings showed that employee commitment significantly influences the performance goals of these universities. The study recommends that these universities should seek to train, develop and align their human capital towards higher quality objectives from individual, departmental and organizational levels. This study is significant to the stakeholders in privately – chartered universities in Kenya and related contexts, as it will offer more enriching information on employee commitment to quality

Availability and Utilization of University Funds and Implementation of the Core Mandates of Public Universities in Kenya

The terms "availability" and "utilization" relate to the sources from which the institution can easily raise money and use it in accordance with established guidelines. It serves as the cornerstone of daily activities at the university. Due to funding shortages resulting from the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC) funding model's implementation, the researcher was forced to evaluate the availability and use of university funds in order to comprehend the sources of those funds and the limitations imposed on them in order to ensure smooth utilization. Vice Chancellors of Kenya's public universities as well as heads of faculties, schools, and institutes provided information for the study. Three hundred and sixty people were the study's target population. Nine Vice Chancellors and ninety-nine heads of faculties, schools, and institutions made up the sample of one hundred and eight, which was obtained by applying a thirty percent of the target population rule. Using stratified random sampling, nine universities of study were selected. Data were gathered via interviews and questionnaires. Lecturers in Garissa University's Department of Educational Management used their expert judgment to determine validity. Utilizing Cronbach's alpha index, the reliability of the questionnaire items was examined. The results from the questionnaire were analyzed using Pearson r, while the data from the interview schedule were evaluated thematically. The results of this study showed that public universities in Kenya were mostly dependent on government capitation for operations rather than endowment funds, which prevented them from allocating funds for research or paying back money withheld for SACCOS or KRA on time. The findings also demonstrated that budget deficits might be reduced by carefully calculating student fees. Results showed that there was only a slight association (r (68) =.22, p =.072) between the implementation of public universities' main mandates and the availability and usage of university finances. In order to assure sustainability, this study advised colleges to diversify their revenue streams and adhere to financial sources' regulations and guidelines. Keywords: Pearson r, correlation, availability, utilization, and differentiated unit cost model.

Effectiveness of Job Responsibility Initiatives for Satisfaction on Commitment of Non-Academic Staff In Universities in Kenya: A Case of University of Eldoret

The level of job commitment by non-academic staff in universities is a critical factor that influences organizational success. By creating a supportive work environment, offering growth opportunities, promoting work-life balance, and recognizing employee contributions, universities can enhance the job commitment of their non-academic staff and ultimately improve overall performance. By balancing workload, providing support, recognition, and growth opportunities, institutions can cultivate a more committed workforce that contributes positively to the overall success of the university. The level of satisfaction obtained from job responsibilities assigned to nonacademic staffs in universities plays a significant role in determining their commitment levels. Incorporating job responsibilities into the management and leadership practices within universities, universities can foster a work environment where non-academic staff feel fulfilled, engaged, and committed to their roles and the mission of the university. However, this is deficient in most universities, including Kenya, which is contrary to a multifaceted role non-teaching staff play in supporting national development goals in many nations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which effectiveness of job responsibility influences commitment of non-academic staffs in University of Eldoret in Kenya. The study was based on expectancy theory of motivation. This study adopted on a quantitative research approach. The study utilized a correlational research design to determine the extent of relationship between job responsibility and commitment of non-academic staff in the research site. A sample size of 137 nonacademic staffs was drawn from target population of 208 using Yamane formula. both Stratified random sampling and simple random samplings were used to select units of analysis. Structured self-administered questionnaires were used for primary data collection. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics as well as inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Analyzed data was presented in using suitable tables and figures. The study’s findings revealed a positive significant relationship between job responsibility and commitment of workers (β1=0.802, p=0.000 < 0.05). The study concluded that there is a significant relationship between job responsibility and commitment of non-academic staff in the university of Eldoret.

Role Of Social Media in Stakeholder Engagement in Universities in Kenya

Researchers and practitioners agree that stakeholder engagement is an important aspect of universities in the 21st century. Social media is changing the way people and businesses communicate and collaborate. Research shows that organizations struggle to develop social media management systems to engage with stakeholders. In today's digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools for communication and engagement. However, there is limited research examining the role of social media in facilitating stakeholder engagement in universities in Kenya. Therefore, this study sought to fill this knowledge gap by exploring how social media is utilized and its impact on stakeholder engagement within the university setting. The research objectives were formulated to guide the study and include: Assessing the current use of social media platforms by universities in Kenya for stakeholder engagements: Identifying the key stakeholders involved in social media engagements by universities: Examining the benefits and challenges associated with using social media for stakeholder engagements: This study used innovation diffusion theory and excellence theory. To achieve the study objectives, a mixed-methods approach was utilized. The target group included 270 participants. The sample size was 161 participants. Stratified random sampling was used to provide representation from the various universities and departments. data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 and thematic analysis to derive meaningful insights. Analyzed quantitative data was presented through mean, frequency, and standard. The assessment of current social media used by universities indicated that they are actively utilizing platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to engage with their stakeholders. The identification of key stakeholders involved in social media engagements highlighted the importance of targeting students, prospective students, alumni, and the wider community. The examination of benefits and challenges associated with using social media for stakeholder engagements revealed that social media platforms provide opportunities for increased reach, immediate communication, and fostering a sense of community. However, maintaining content quality, and managing negative feedback were also identified. Furthermore, the analysis of the impact of social media on stakeholder perceptions and relationships showed that effective use of social media can enhance stakeholder satisfaction, create a positive institutional image, and foster stronger connections between universities and their stakeholders. However, ineffective use or mismanagement of social media can lead to negative perceptions and strained relationships. The paper concluded that social media plays a vital role in facilitating stakeholder engagements in universities in Kenya. Effective utilization of social media platforms leads to improved stakeholder relationships, enhanced reputation, and increased engagement with the university community. The study recommended that universities should develop a comprehensive social media strategy aligned with the university's goals and target audience and regularly monitor and analyze social media engagement metrics to evaluate effectiveness. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights specific to the context of universities in Kenya and emphasizing the significance of social media in stakeholder engagements

The influence of supervisors and peers on PhD students’ sense of belonging and their success at Kenyan universities

Purpose Given declining tuition funds and government grants, Kenyan universities need to develop strategies, including increased research grants and collaborations, to diversify their income sources. Well-managed doctoral students can boost a university’s teaching and research outputs. However, numbers of students enrolled in doctoral programmes at Kenyan universities are low, and graduation rates and time-to-graduate statistics are disturbing. Research undertaken elsewhere underline the important role played by supervisors and peers in facilitating students’ sense of belonging and their success. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the influence of supervisory and peer support on PhD students’ sense of belonging and their success at Kenyan universities. Design/methodology/approach In this cross-sectional study, data were gathered through an online questionnaire from 614 students admitted to doctoral programmes at Kenyan universities between 2010 and 2018. We used multi-item scales to collect data on PhD students’ self-efficacy, supervisory and peer support and a sense of belonging. Findings Structural equation modelling results revealed that PhD students’ modes of study and self-efficacy were significantly associated with the quality of supervision, peer support and a sense of belonging. However, only age, a sense of belonging and the quality of supervision were directly linked to their success. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature on doctoral-level education, responding to the need for research on the influence of relationships with supervisors and peers on PhD students’ sense of belonging and their success, especially in developing countries.

Unravelling the leadership styles used by head librarians in universities in Kenya

There is an ongoing debate about what makes a leader successful. Whereas multiple views are discernible from the literature, the factors that determine leadership styles are not adequately discussed. This paper explores the leadership styles head librarians in university libraries in Kenya use. It specifically explores the roles and qualities of head librarians as leaders in universities in Kenya. Further, it analyses the leadership styles they apply and their effectiveness in facilitating successful university library leadership. The paper also examines the influence of age, educational level, and gender of the head librarians on their leadership styles. The study was conducted using a mixed methods research approach in eight (8) public and four (4) private university libraries in Kenya. Quantitative data was collected from library staff and library users (staff and students) using questionnaires, while qualitative data was collected from head librarians using interviews. The findings reveal that head librarians oversee the strategic and operational functions of university libraries. To perform these roles effectively, head librarians need effective communication skills. They should also be visionary, inspiring, motivating, patient, consistent and firm. The findings also reveal that the most effective head librarians apply a democratic leadership style. It is also demonstrated that while there may be some association between gender and leadership styles, it is not strong enough to be considered statistically significant. It also emerged that having a higher level of education (PhD) significantly influences head librarians’ leadership styles compared to having a lower level of education (MSc). However, the association between age and leadership styles was not statistically significant.

Under Performance; Why Intrapreneurial Strategies and Operating Environment Matter in Fixing Performance of Public Universities in Kenya

The Kenyan government in 2023 unveiled a new funding model aimed at promoting affordable and equal access to higher education as well as breath life to public universities that would otherwise collapse due to financial challenges. Improvements in performance is seen through intrapreneurial strategies and that is the focus of this study. The unit of analysis was 20 public universities and the unit of observation was 400 participants. A combination of descriptive and explanatory research designs was used. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data; which was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and content analysis. Multiple regression models were used to test the association between variables. The study found a statistically significant (β-0.620, p=0.000<0.05) and partially moderating influence of operating environment between intrapreneurial strategies and performance of public universities in Kenya. The study concluded that the operating environment moderates the relationship between intrapreneurial strategies and performance of public universities in Kenya. The study recommends that Vice-Chancellors of public universities should adopt innovativeness, pro-activeness, risk-taking and self-renewal intrapreneurial strategies with an awareness of the external and internal operating environment. as they have a significant and positive relationship with performance. The study also recommends that the Ministry of Education, Government of Kenya and relevant policy makers should institute reforms and organise forums that promote intrapreneurship adoption within the public universities to promote overall organisational performance.

The Nature of Television and Radio Programs and Their Influence in the Growth of Kiswahili among University Students in Kenya

Purpose: This paper traces the place of the nature of programmes in Kenyan media and their influence on Kiswahili growth among university students studying journalism in Kenyan universities. Three fundamental concerns were on focus here; Length of programs; language in programs and the type of Programs.
 Methodology: The study used mixed method design to obtain qualitative and quantitative data. It targeted University students sampled from 4 public Universities in Nairobi County. A sample size of 327 students was used. Focus group discussions involving 32 participants were also involved. Four Swahili experts were interviewed to get expert opinion. Multi-stage sampling design was used to select the sample for the survey. This sampling technique was appropriate because the study sample was selected in stages using stratified random sampling and simple random sampling technique. Purposive sampling was used to collect qualitative data. The tools used to collect data were questionnaire for quantitative data, interview schedule for key informants and interview guide for focus group discussions. These were to help to assess the influence of the nature of programmes in media organizations on the growth of Kiswahili among university students in Kenya. The study triangulated quantitative and qualitative data to give results shared in this paper. Data was then analyzed using SPSS (version 20) statistical program. Inferential statistics used were descriptive, correlation regression and ANOVA. Data was presented using tables.
 Findings: Findings show that nature of programmes has a significant effect on the growth of Kiswahili.For instance, majority of the respondents agreed that the length of Swahili programs in media have made them develop positive attitude toward Kiswahili. Additionally, they agreed that the nature of language used in presenting Swahili programmes makes them use correct grammar. The study also noted that the respondents agreed that the types of programs have significant influence on their Swahili vocabulary.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Learning Theory posits that learning takes place in a social context through observation or direct instruction. People learn the tenets of language through these various types of programmes which carry instructions and are observable. For the Behaviorist Theory of Language Development focus is on objectively observable behaviors where learning is acquired based on environmental conditions (McLeod, 2016). Language acquisition, use and growth has been as a result of emulating what is going on around the learner. The Cultivation theory that suggests television is responsible for shaping or cultivating viewer conceptions of social reality has it that TV viewing affects the language development of children through role modeling where children always want to behave like the characters they see and end up developing language aspects such as pronunciation, intonations and vocabulary like those of the TV and Radio presenter believing that that is the way the world is.For practice and policy media literacy to practitioners has been found to be a necessary educational tool for them to understand the type of media content to interact with if they have to grow their language capabilities. There is need to increase knowledge of risks involved in use of hybrid Kiswahili. While this is so language policy should encompass organizing workshops and seminars for the youth to sensitize them on proper language.

Abstract 821: Uptake of cervical cancer screening services by women living with HIV in Kajiado County Kenya

Abstract Background: This project is an African Caribbean Cancer Consortium (AC3) facilitated study: Women living with HIV (WLHIV) are more susceptible to cancer due to their immune-compromised status. The Kenya Ministry of Health recommends that women diagnosed with HIV should be screened for cervical cancer annually by either visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) or visual inspection with Lugol’s iodine (VILI), cytology and testing for HPV once every two years. Objective: We determined the uptake of cervical cancer screening and HPV testing by women living with HIV (WLHIV) in Kajiado County in 2022. Methodology: The electronic health information system was used to abstract data for WLHIV in Kajiado county. Kajiado county has 57 antiretroviral (ART) facilities. However, our analysis accessed data from 38 facilities whose data is captured in the health information system. Authorized health care workers from the county were requested to abstract redacted data from the health information system. No personal identifiers were collected from the system as a means of protecting the privacy of individuals and abiding with the Kenya’s data protection law. Authorization to access the county was obtained from the county’s department of health while ethical approval was obtained from Mount Kenya University’s Institutional Scientific and Ethics Review Committee. Results: A total of 16,827 people living with HIV were enrolled for care at the 38 ART selected sites in 2022. Out on the total population that was enrolled for care, 11,785 (70%) were women with an age range of 15 to 49 years. A total of 3342 WLHIV, representing 28.36% of the target population, were screened by using visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). Data for other methods of screening and HPV testing was not available in the health information systems. Of those screened, 3240 (97%) tested negative, 78 (2.3%) had positive results while 24 (0.7%) had suspicious lesions. Conclusion: Our analysis shows low uptake of cervical cancer screening services with only 28.36% of the targeted women being screened in 2022. The only available testing method (VIA) is less robust as compared to cytology and HPV testing. We also found a gap in reporting of HPV testing in the county. We thus recommend implementation science research examining the systemic barriers to HPV testing and reporting to better inform best practice HPV-related cancer prevention and control policy and practice to reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality among WLHIV. Citation Format: Caren Kamau, Alice Njoroge, Francis Makokha, Kimlin T. Ashing. Uptake of cervical cancer screening services by women living with HIV in Kajiado County Kenya [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 821.

Effect of Occupational Transfers on Employee Engagement in Private Universities in Western Kenya By IJISRT

According to Makori, M. & Kariuki, N., (2015), a study was conducted in Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA) by the HR Office in 2014 and disclosed that about 50% of employees in Kenyan institutions of Higher Learning merely come to work to do what is needed of them. The study showed that 47% of workers came to work and ended up using most of their time on social websites during work hours. Hence workforce turnover was registered at 43%. The major cause of these situations is not known. Scholars have given many suggestions that some Occupational changes in private universities are linked with digitalization, how information is shared, relocation of workers, change in task objectives and production costs. Nevertheless, it is not known whether these changes have any significant effect on employee engagement in Kenyan private universities. This study therefore was particularly concerned with the Effect of Occupational Transfers on Employee Engagement in Private Universities in Western Kenya. The conclusions of this study might be very useful to many stakeholders involved in the management of Private universities in Kenya. The study was based on the Job Characteristics theory. Correlational research design was used. Target population was 1440 workers of four selected Private Universities. Stratified random sampling techniques were employed. The sample of 313 workers from different sections was used. Questionnaires were given to Respondents to complete for the purpose of data collection. Questionnaire were developed using items from literature reviews. SPSS and Excel tools were used during the data analysis process. Data was presented using charts and Frequency tables. From the results, conclusions and recommendations were made. A pilot study was carried out with 10 respondents from Uzima University to assess the validity of the research instruments. The 10 respondents were not involved in the main study. The results revealed that occupational transfers had a negative effect (β=-.541, p<.05) and accounted for 29.3% variance in employee engagement (R2=.293, p<.05). It was concluded that Occupational Transfers have a significant effect on employee engagement. The study suggested that private universities in western Kenya should communicate to their employees before they are transferred.

Institutional Information Communication Technology Capacity influence on E-Learning Utilization for Instruction in Kenyan Universities

E-Learning is globally recognized as a significant strategy in improving relevancy, efficiency, costeffectiveness, and quality of higher education. The paper presents a discussion of Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure capacity influences on e-Learning utilization in instruction in Kenyan universities, with a view to determining strategies that universities employ to enhance e-Learning utilization. It opines that e-Learning has not been very popular as a method for instruction in universities, due to limited institutional ICT infrastructure capacities to fully implement e-Learning. The study used the mixed methods research design methodology to debate, reflect, critique, and discuss institutional capacities by universities in utilizing e-Learning in instruction. The reviewed different data sources, borrowed and immensely used government publications, e-Learning books, journals and research articles were used in document analysis. The researchers also used own intuitive experience and knowledge in e-Learning utilization in instruction. E-Learning utilization demands for collaborative effort between government, universities, faculty and students, as well us bodies like the Commission for University Education (CUE). It was found that there are several major barriers to institutional capacities of universities in utilizing e-Learning in instruction. First, was the procurement of technology and sourcing of funds. It was seen that the total capitation for funding the programs was as low as 3%. Secondly, internal barriers arising from within individual institutions and faculty. Majority of the universities for a long time have relied on face to face interaction between students and faculty. However, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, all learning institutions including universities, colleges and schools were forced to close down and seek alternative methods of instruction. It was found that most universities have moderate capacities to utilize e-Learning, but are yet to exploit its full potential. The study also established that nearly all the faculty were aware and used e-Learning for instruction but to a limited extent. Findings revealed that faculty prefer blended mode of instruction, but complained of limited bandwidths and poor connectivity for faculty and students far off from the university campuses. To mitigate the challenge, universities must strive to train and retrain the faculty on how to use technology and not about technology. Based on the review carried out in six universities; all the universities have some technologies in place including Computer Based Learning, Virtual Learning, video conferencing, content delivery via networks, use of memory sticks and emails. All have an e-Learning portal, module and platforms used for e-Learning. Majority of the university dons consider bandwidth, networking and a reliable Learning management system (LMS) as critical infrastructure for e-Learning utilization. Development and improved utilization of e-Learning is practically possible with enhanced institutional capacities. Enhanced use implies enhanced information transfer, reduced movement of faculty and students allow adequate time for faculty to invest in innovative teaching; enable faster transfer of information while students actively learn on their own. This would help bridge the gap and reduce pressure on existing resources. E-Learning could be the solution to the problem of increased student enrolment and reduced quality of university education. However, to ease the burden of financing university programs, public- private sector partnerships need to be encouraged. The study established that universities must provide students with affordable internet. To a large extent it delves into possible benefits and opportunities that would arise if universities realize and utilize fully the available institutional infrastructure and e-Learning resources. Demand is made upon the universities to develop and operationalize e-Learning policy and invest more in capacity building, set up infrastructure to deliver instruction online.

Correlates of Commitment to Career Choices of Pre-Service Education Students in Selected Universities in Kenya

The study attempted to establish the correlates of commitment to career choice of pre-service education students in six public and private universities in Kenya. The third and fourth year pre-service education students were the respondents in this study. Correlational research design and concurrent mixed method approach was employed in this study. Purposive, cluster and convenience sampling methods were used. Data were gathered by the use of questionnaires and interviews. In data analysis, frequencies, means, standard deviation, linear regression and Pearson product moment correlation coefficient were used. The pre-service education students were found to be moderately committed to their career choice and that intrinsic motivation, self-concept, status of the teaching profession, fallback and socio-cultural beliefs were correlated to career choice. Fallback however had an inverse correlation to the commitment of career choice. The study recommends that factors which motivate pre-service education student’s choice of teaching as a career should be clearly understood, so that only students motivated by those factors which were found to promote commitment, like intrinsic motivation, self-concept, status of the teaching profession and social cultural beliefs are the ones placed to train as teachers.

Leveraging Innovation for Success: A Study of Innovation Practices and Performance in Private Kenyan Universities

This study delves into the nuanced interplay between innovation practices and the performance of private universities. Employing a descriptive research design, the investigation sought to comprehensively examine the effect of innovation practices on performance outcomes. Data collection was facilitated through the administration of meticulously crafted questionnaires, with a judiciously selected sample of 121 respondents drawn from private universities purposively. The empirical findings unearthed a compelling and affirmative correlation between innovation practices and performance. Through rigorous correlation analysis, the study further illuminated the intricate dynamics between innovation practices and performance (r = 0.731, p < 0.05), underscoring a statistically significant relationship. The research establishes a substantive and affirmative effect of Innovation Practices, particularly in the domain of innovation, on the performance landscape of private universities. The implications of these findings reverberate beyond the institution's walls, offering valuable insights for private universities navigating the multifaceted challenges of contemporary higher education. This study recommends an extension of the investigation to encompass the realm of public universities in Kenya.

Clinical experiences of RN to BScN nursing students in Kenyan universities

Introduction and objective: Clinical learning environments play a great role in nursing training as they allow nursing students to develop their clinical skills by combining cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills. Consequently, clinical learning environments enable nursing students to bridge the theory-practice gap. Fewer studies have examined the clinical experiences of RN to BScN students in Kenya. This paper is part of analytical memo of a larger PhD study that sought to explore and describe the support needs of RN to BScN students in Kenyan universities. The paper focuses on clinical experiences of RN to BScN students.Methods: Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, ten focus group discussions were conducted with 100 RN to BScN students, purposively sampled from four universities in Kenya. Data were analyzed using Tesch’s data analysis protocol. The article has adhered to Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative studies.Results: The data on RN to BScN students’ clinical experience revealed two themes: curriculum challenges and practice environment and six sub-themes: redundant learning outcomes, redundant clinical assessments, not acknowledging prior learning, lack of clinical supervision, lack of learning resources and “an extra pair of hands”.Conclusions: The study findings highlight the need for review of clinical learning outcomes for the RN to BScN students in Kenya. The findings emphasize the need for collaborative partnerships between universities, clinical learning environments, nurse educators, and policy makers, to design of clinical learning outcomes relevant to RN to BScN students in Kenya.

Effect of Shade Intensities on Growth, Biomass and Grain Yield of Green Grams (Vigna radiata) and Maize (Zea mays) in Kitui County

Maize and green grams are important food security crops grown and consumed in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya. High temperatures and low soil moisture lead to yield reduction. A two-season study was conducted to investigate the effect of different shade intensities (0 %, 50 % and 70 %) on green gram and maize growth, biomass and grain yield in Kitui County (1.4° S, 37.9° E). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications at the South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) farm. Results showed that maize had significantly (p<0.05) higher plant height, Ear height, cob weight, total biomass and grain yield per hectare in 50%, followed by 70% and lowest in 0%. Green gram plants had significantly (p<0.05) higher number of pods, seeds per pod, total above-ground biomass and grain yield per hectare 50 % (1759 kg/Ha), 70 % (1553 kg/Ha) and lowest in 0% (478 kg/Ha). The plants grown under 50% shade intensity had higher grain and biomass yield for both green grams and maize compared to those under 70% and 0% shade intensity, which may be attributed to adequate moisture due to reduced evapotranspiration. The study demonstrated that the cost-benefit analysis of shade intensity on green grams farming system yield and break-even price was best at 50% shade intensity. The study demonstrated that the cost-benefit analysis of shade intensity in maize farming systems is not significant. To improve grain and biomass yield of both green grams and maize for food and nutrition security, study recommends the use of 50% intensity in growing green grams in ASALs due to benefits including soil moisture conservation, improved plant growth, yield, economic efficiency and cost-benefit ratios

Influence of Organizational Resources on the Performance of Public Universities in Kenya

Public universities in Kenya are under both moral and legal obligations to perform three important functions, which are providing excellent teaching, research, and community outreach. These functions are important because if they are well performed, the country will realise its vision for 2030. However, the performance of public universities in Kenya is still far below expectations based on both global and regional comparisons. The study, therefore, is intended to determine if the performance problem in the universities can be solved by the organisational resources; hence, the objective of the study is “to determine the influence of organisational resources on the performance of public universities in Kenya.” A mixed approach consisting of both quantitative and qualitative research designs was used. The quantitative data was obtained using a questionnaire, while the qualitative data was obtained through interviews. The collected data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. From the analysis, it was found that organisational resources had positive statistical significance for the performance of public universities in Kenya (β = 0.504; t = 5.936; p<0.05). The study, therefore, concluded that effective human, financial, and physical resources definitely lead to positive improvements in the performance of public universities in Kenya. It was therefore recommended that the government of Kenya should plough more resources into the universities as a way of improving their performance.