Masters Theses and Dissertations

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Academic Dishonesty Mitigation Measures Put in Place by Libraries for Supporting Postgraduate Research at Selected Universities in Kenya
(KeMU, 2023-09) Mwangi, Maina Antony
Postgraduate research is significant in the academic discipline, and students are expected to submit original research without engaging in academic misconduct. Nevertheless, academic dishonesty continues to be a severe challenge among postgraduate students in different universities globally. Despite the different measures to counter academic dishonesty, the challenge continues to prevail. This study was motivated by the high rates of plagiarism and academic dishonesty reported by universities among postgraduate students. It aimed to assess the mitigation measures put up by libraries to curb academic dishonesty to support postgraduate research at KeMU and UoEM in Kenya. The objectives were: to establish the efficacy of plagiarism detection software, scholarly training, academic dishonesty awareness creation, and academic dishonesty policies and guidelines in mitigating academic dishonesty at the UoEM and KeMU in Kenya. The theory of planned behavior guided the research. It employed a survey research design. The target population included postgraduate students, Directors of Postgraduate Studies, and librarians, totaling 1008 participants. It used a sample size of 208 participants, constituting 195 postgraduate students, two directors of postgraduate studies, and 11 librarians from the UoEM and KeMU. It applied stratified sampling and simple random sampling within each stratum. Interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents. Pretesting of instruments was done in Kirinyaga University with 1 director of postgraduate studies, 5 librarians, and 25 postgraduate students. To determine the validity, the researcher used construct and content validity and Cronbach alpha coefficient was applied to determine reliability. The methods used for analysis were descriptive statistics like mean and standard deviation, while thematic analysis was used on qualitative data. The research data was presented in tables. The research followed research ethics, observing all research policies. It also ensured the respondents’ safety and confidentiality. Results showed that academic dishonesty measures established by libraries for supporting postgraduate research in KeMU and UoEM, promote academic integrity. Background information on academic dishonesty presented the practice as a significant challenge to postgraduate studies. The practice is manifested in using software to commit academic dishonesty, falsifying information, and plagiarism in research and scholarly writing. The main approaches university libraries adopted to combat the challenge are: using anti-plagiarism software, creating awareness, training students, increasing access to research materials in online and physical libraries, and using academic dishonesty policy guidelines. However, the research findings showed that although the approaches have helped reduce academic dishonesty, they cannot eliminate the challenge completely; hence, the need for university libraries to adopt measures to improve the processes. The research concluded that postgraduate research is vital in creating useful knowledge, and its quality should be maintained by mitigating academic dishonesty. It recommended that universities management, faculty and libraries should increase collaborations between academic stakeholders, increase student mentorship, support anti-plagiarism software use with other frameworks, make educational writing training a regular practice, and establish awareness creation forums to inform students about academic integrity policies and guidelines. This study was valuable in promoting quality and original postgraduate research without engaging in academic dishonesty.
Adopting Attention Interest Desire Action (Aida) Model in Enhancing Electronic Resource Utilization among Postgraduate Students at Universities in Meru County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2024-09) Musungu, Mercy Shidemburi
Electronic resources are revolutionizing global education by providing postgraduate students with swift access to information, powerful search capabilities, and seamless citation of scholarly works. These digital tools are not merely enhancing learning; they are transforming how knowledge is accessed and utilized, ushering in a new era of academic excellence. However, there is a noticeable research gap regarding the optimal utilization of these resources, especially among postgraduate students. Hence, the study aimed to fill this gap by proposing the adoption of the Attention Interest Desire Action (AIDA) model to enhance electronic resource utilization among postgraduate students at KeMU and Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST). The purpose of the study was to assess how the strategic application of the AIDA model can enhance the utilization of electronic resources, providing both short and long term best-practice recommendations. The specific objectives were to: assess postgraduate students' attention towards electronic resource utilization; determine their interest in such resources; examine their desire for electronic resource utilization; and evaluate their proactive actions in utilizing electronic resources. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach with a descriptive survey research design. The target population consisted of 13 library heads of sections and 800 postgraduate students from MUST and KeMU. Purposive sampling was used to select library head of sections, while stratified and simple random sampling was employed for postgraduate students, resulting in a total sample size of 260 postgraduate students and 13 heads of sections. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Data quality was ensured through construct, content, and face validity checks, and reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were computed using SPSS version 26, while inferential statistics assessed the relationship between variables. Thematic analysis was utilized for open-ended questions and interview data. The study noted that extensive training programs and major advancements in technical infrastructure are necessary for the efficient utilization of e-resources. This is supported by regular training, awareness campaigns, tailored support, improved accessibility, and sufficient ICT infrastructure. The effective utilization of e-resources was curtailed by technical issues such as outdated computers and poor internet connectivity, limited IT illiteracy and financial constraints in some postgraduate students. The study noted that effective utilization of e-resources among postgraduate students is largely affected by training, technical infrastructure, and resource management. It requires collaboration between teachers, students, librarians, and university administration. The study recommended that, universities should prioritize significant technological infrastructure upgrades, such as raising internet speed and improving computer availability. University libraries should incorporate e-resources into the curriculum and hold frequent training sessions to improve students' e-resource literacy and navigation abilities. They should also implement policies that integrate e-resources into the curriculum, offering incentives for high usage, and continuously improving services based on postgraduate student feedback. The findings implicate on strategies such as targeted efforts to stimulate curiosity and relevance (Interest), cultivate strong motivations (Desire), and facilitate proactive engagement (Action) to enhance electronic resource utilization, ultimately improving academic outcomes and research capabilities among postgraduate students.
Adopting SERVQUAL Model in Improving Digital Institutional Repository Information Services to Postgraduate Students at Universities in Meru County
(KeMU, 2023-09) Tsenga, Sophia Mjeni
Service delivery in digital institutional repositories among university libraries has continued to demand multi-skilled workforce, competent and responsive employees who listen to customer’s needs. This implicates directly on the nature of service delivery by librarians towards meeting the needs of their clients. However, digital institutional repository service provision has been unsatisfactory. Hence, the study aimed to determine how adopting SERVQUAL model can improve digital institutional repository information services to postgraduate students at universities in Meru County. The specific objectives were: reliability, responsiveness, tangibility, empathy and assurance towards improving digital institutional repository information services to postgraduate students. The study was underpinned by the SERVQUAL model. It also adopted a mixed-methods approach and a concurrent embedded research design. The target population constituted university library head of sections and post-graduate students. A sample size of 91 post-graduate students and 10 heads of sections librarians was adopted. Purposive sampling was employed to get the head of section librarians and simple random sampling for sampling post-graduate students. Data was collected using questionnaires and an interview guide. Data quality was achieved by checking construct, content and face validity, while reliability was checked using Cronbach alpha. The mean and standard deviation were computed for descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, for assessing the overall applicability of SERVQUAL model in repositories. Thematic analysis was utilized for open-ended questions and interview data. Findings were presented using tables, figures and narrations. Findings indicated that digital institutional repository service provision was significantly affected by all components of the SERVQUAL model. The study noted that effective service provision at the institutional repositories section requires reliability, assurance, empathy, responsiveness, tangibility, promptness, politeness, courtesy and demeanor. These aspects are supported by knowledgeable staff, customer care, adequate ICT infrastructure, facilities and technology; customer awareness, adequate funding, and information resources. The digital institutional repository service provision was curtailed by inadequate ICT infrastructure, staff competencies, facilities, information resources; non-vibrant feedback platform, low bandwidth and frequent downtime of the institutional repository webpage. Other drawbacks included limited student awareness and lack of postgraduate diploma research projects. The study noted that effective digital institutional repository service provision requires concerted efforts of repository managers, university management, university librarians, Directorate of Postgraduate, students and faculty. The study recommends need for university libraries to retool their staff, revise repository policies to incorporate awareness creation, and lobby for increase of library budget to cater for training, purchase of equipment and furniture. Heads of libraries should advocate for ICT infrastructure and facility development. They should also liaise with ICT managers for acquisition, upgrading, and maintenance of repository technology, and solicit University Management financial support for acquisition of necessary infrastructure and facilities. The findings implicate on competencies and professional development of library staff, stakeholders’ involvement, ICT infrastructure development, physical facilities and revision of repository policy framework.
Adoption of E- Records Management for Service Delivery in the Kenya Police Service.
(2016-06) Mwaniki, Grace Njoki
With the advent of information technologies, the variety of ways that information can be created, stored and manipulated has greatly increased in comparison to the days when information was produced almost solely through the medium of paper. The aim of this study was to examine the adoption of electronic records for service delivery at the Kenya Police Service. The objectives of the study were: to examine the status of records management in the Kenya Police Service; the availability of ICT infrastructure to facilitate e-records management; the financial support provided for the adoption of e-record management and the skills of personnel at Kenya Police Service in e-record management. The theoretical literature focused on Technology Acceptance Model. The study adopted a survey research design and the target population comprised of 616 officers from 29 police stations in Nairobi, Kenya. Data was collected using questionnaires and an interview guide. A total of 112 questionnaires were returned resulting in a response rate of 86.8%. The study used both probability sampling technique (stratified random sampling) and non-probability sampling techniques -. (purposive sampling and convenience sampling). The study collected both qualitative 7 X and quantitative data hence the use of mixed method. The" quantitative data from questionnaires was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. The study established that Kenya Police Service mainly used manual record keeping systems and the institution was not prepared for the adoption of electronic records management as a tool to enhance efficiency in service delivery. The study recommends that the Kenya Government and the Kenya Police Service should come up With a strategic plan that would guide automation of record keeping systems, allocate sufficient funds to support acquisition of ICT infrastructure for e-records, staff training and
Adoption of Internet of Things in Enhancing Knowledge Management in University Libraries: A Case Study of Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
(KeMU, 2023-08) Maina, John
The potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness has been widely acknowledged in various sectors. However, university libraries are yet to fully embrace this technology. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) technology in enhancing knowledge management at Catholic University of Eastern Africa library, with a view to recommend best practices. Specific objectives were to: assess the types of Internets of Things technology adopted at Catholic University of Eastern Africa library, examine factors attributed to successful adoption of the Internet of Things at Catholic University of Eastern Africa library, examine how internet of things technology relate with knowledge management and determine the competency of library staff in using IoT to manage knowledge at Catholic University of Eastern Africa library. The study was guided by the Unified Theory of Technology Acceptance and Use and Adaptive Structural Theory, and was conducted at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa university libraries. Utilizing a descriptive research design, this study focused on a target population of seven decision-making librarians and five hundred library patrons. Employing a qualitative approach, data was collected through interviews with a purposively selected university librarian, five section head librarians, and six focus group discussions (7 each), involving simple randomly sampled library patrons. Document analysis was also conducted. Content analysis and thematic categorization were used for data analysis. The study found out that there was limited IoT adoption for knowledge management in libraries at CUEA. This is attributed to challenges in infrastructure, training, and organizational barriers. Key success factors identified include robust infrastructure, user acceptance, library staff training, and organizational support. The study also found varying competency levels among library staff in using IoT technology. Additionally, a positive relationship between IoT and knowledge management was observed, particularly in terms of information access, resource management, and collaboration. The study concluded that the IoT adoption for knowledge management in libraries at CUEA were limited to infrastructure, training, competency, user acceptance, support and organizational barriers. Additionally, a positive relationship between IoT and knowledge management was observed. Based on the findings, the study recommends that libraries should develop a comprehensive strategy for integrating IoT technology into knowledge management practices. Libraries should establish partnerships with technology providers and industry experts to access suitable IoT solutions. Libraries should conduct regular assessments and evaluations to monitor the progress and measure the impact of IoT implementation. Additionally, the government should foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning within university libraries. Furthermore, the study encourages further research and studies to expand the knowledge base and contribute to the advancement of best practices in the field of IoT adoption for knowledge management in university libraries. By implementing these recommendations, university libraries will leverage IoT technology effectively, enhance their knowledge management capabilities, and make significant contributions to academic excellence in research and learning environments
Adoption of Open Educational Resources (OER) In Promoting Blended Learning at University Libraries in Nairobi County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2024-09) Nyamboga, Felysta Nyamusi
There is a lack of consensus in current studies on the extent of Open Educational Resources integration for blended learning in universities and the associated factors. This study investigated the adoption of Open Educational Resources (OER) in promoting blended learning within university libraries in Nairobi County, focusing on the University of Nairobi, Technical University of Kenya, Strathmore University, and Catholic University of East Africa which was informed by a paucity of studies focusing on this population. The study sought to assess the adoption of open educational resources (OER) in blended learning at university libraries in Nairobi County, Kenya, to provide recommendations for improvement. The specific objectives were to evaluate the extent of OER adoption, identify strategies for incorporating OER into blended learning, and determine the success factors and policies supporting OER initiatives. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory, Technology Acceptance Model, and the Institutional Theory provided the theoretical underpinning for the interpretation of the findings. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative elements in the questionnaire to library staff and qualitative interviews with university librarians involved in OER adoption initiatives. The data collection involved 86 library staff and 4 university librarians. Census method and purposive sampling was employed to get the library staff and university librarians’ respectively. The quality of the data collection tool was achieved by checking the face, content and criterion validity, while reliability was achieved by using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient. The mean and standard deviation were computed to SPSS for descriptive statistics for close-ended questions, while the open-ended questions and interviews were analyzed thematically using NVivo. The data was presented using graphs, pie charts, and tables. The analysis revealed a positive but varied state of OER adoption, with significant differences in awareness and integration efforts across the surveyed libraries with 62.3% indicating adoption to a large extent. The findings showed that the key strategies for incorporating OER included interdisciplinary collaboration (89.8%), investment in technological infrastructure (42% strongly agreed), and the promotion of open pedagogical practices (72.6%). Success factors identified were strong institutional leadership (46.4%), comprehensive faculty development programs (49.3%), and the effective dissemination of best practices. The findings on the policies highlighted presence of but the need for clearer copyright and licensing guidelines, sustainable funding mechanisms, and robust monitoring and review processes. The findings further indicated that while there is a foundational level of OER adoption, significant opportunities exist for enhancement through targeted awareness campaigns, comprehensive training, and strategic investments in technological infrastructure. The study concluded that universities are integrating OER for blended learning, enabled by institutional support, continuous professional development, and clear policies covering different aspects. Based on the findings, universities should enhance awareness campaigns, provide comprehensive OER training, create centralized repositories, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, invest in technological infrastructure, promote open pedagogical practices, ensure strong institutional leadership, implement faculty development programs, review and improve policies, and secure sustainable funding. This research contributes to the understanding of OER integration in higher education and offers practical recommendations for universities aiming to enhance their blended learning initiatives through OER.
Aflatoxin Analysis in Staple Food Cereals and Assessment of Households’ Awareness on its Management in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2021-09) Marangu, Victor Mwiti
Aflatoxin is a poisonous substance produced by fungi. Crops infestation is inevitable and numerous evolving nations collectively with Kenya do not regularly test their main foods for aflatoxins contamination. Consumption and sale of mycotoxins infested cereals and grains has the risk of contributing to a diversity of severe medical complications in people. Context-specific information on the aflatoxin occurrence in the County makes it possible to document vulnerable staple crops and the level of toxicity in the County. Measurement of exposure using the factors that influence the choice of the food together with the presence of these harmful mycotoxins can be used to demonstrate how this contamination occurs in food, map the aflatoxin hot spots in the County and inform the choice of the most effective control approaches. However, there is lack of local data on aflatoxin contamination in Tharaka-Nithi County to inform interventions chiefly due to lack of local research, testing facilities, and qualified personnel. The main purposes of the research included: to evaluate the levels of aflatoxin in cereals commonly used as staple foods sourced from households and marketplaces, to evaluate households’ awareness on suitable conditions for storage of foods regarding aflatoxin contamination, and to identify factors contributing to aflatoxin contamination. Samples were collected from Tharaka-South and TharakaNorth Sub-Counties which had three Wards with a total of 24 Sub-Locations. 3 Households per Sub-Location that had some stock of the crops of interest were randomly chosen from the villages in each Sub-Location. Three major open-air markets were also selected based on size for the collection of the samples. During the collection of the samples, observations were done, and a questionnaire used to determine the study respondents’ awareness of aflatoxin contamination and knowledge of the potential causes of contamination. Analysis for aflatoxin levels was conducted using the ELISA Kit. The information collected during household interviews was analyzed using SPSS version 22. The main cereals used as staple foods among households in the County as per the study results included: pearl millet, sorghum, maize, green grams, and cow peas. Overall, aflatoxin contamination in 25.8% of sampled cereals was above the legal threshold of 10ppb Kenyan standards with 17.2% of cereals exceeding the established human tolerance levels of greater than 20ppb. The aflatoxin contamination levels of 44.4% of the market samples was greater than the Kenyan tolerable limits. Based upon the Chi-Square test for association, it was evident that level of aflatoxin was associated with the type of cereals and grains (p-value 0.001, which was less than 0.05 at 95% confidence level). Therefore, cereals and grains levels of contamination differed as they were exposed. Based upon the t-Test for Equality of Means, the difference was not significant (p-value for Maize= 0.89, Sorghum= 0.47 and Pearl Millet=0.64, all of which are greater than 0.05). Thus, there was no difference in mean level of aflatoxin in the cereals and grains in the two study areas. Furthermore, the t-Test for Equality of Means, showed that there was no difference in mean level of aflatoxin in the cereals and grains collected from the markets and households (p-value for Maize=0.294, Sorghum=0.422 and Pearl Millet=0.918, all of which are greater than 0.05). Majority of the farmers (84.7%) were aware of aflatoxin as a dangerous poison found in cereals and grains especially those that are not properly dried to safe moisture content. However, detailed information on the nature, formation, effects, prevention, and control of aflatoxins was scanty and inconsistent. The study provided crucial information on the aflatoxin contamination levels of these major cereals and grains and on households’ knowledge on aflatoxin management. This data will be key in bringing issues to light of the presence of these harmful mycotoxins in staple foods and increase the community’s knowledge and skills on the use of sustainable, low-cost post-harvest management practices to decrease the contamination. This will enhance the well-being of populations in the County and ultimately the national food security.
AI Based Framework for Government Oversight of Personal Data Consent Compliance A Case Study Of Nairobi County
(KeMU, 2024-09) VUNDI,MUSYOKA, GEOFFREY
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, protecting individual privacy and ensuring compliance with personal data regulations have become critical priorities. This study addresses the growing challenge of insufficient government oversight in monitoring real time compliance with personal data consent, with a focus on Nairobi County as a case study. It introduces an AI-based framework designed to automate the detection of privacy breaches, verify adherence to consent agreements, and strengthen regulatory enforcement processes. Grounded in regulatory compliance theory, the research aims to enhance the capacity of oversight bodies by utilizing AI technology to analyze vast datasets, improving the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of compliance monitoring. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Key stakeholders from prominent organizations such as Safaricom PLC, the Kenya Revenue Authority, Equity Bank Kenya, the Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT), and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) were engaged. Data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with government regulators and private sector representatives responsible for managing personal data. A purposive sampling method was employed, selecting 195 respondents to ensure a comprehensive and representative dataset. Data analysis involved thematic analysis for qualitative data and statistical techniques for quantitative data. Findings indicate that the AI-based framework significantly improves the detection and prevention of data privacy violations, optimizes compliance processes, and reduces reliance on manual oversight. Enhanced governance structures and heightened user awareness emerged as crucial factors in promoting better compliance. However, challenges such as regulatory adaptation and limited resources were identified. The study concludes that AI holds transformative potential for government oversight by increasing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency. It recommends that regulatory bodies, particularly the Ministry of ICT, adopt AI-driven solutions and foster public-private partnerships to ensure effective, comprehensive data governance. This approach is vital for addressing emerging privacy challenges in a data-driven world
Alternative Banking Strategies and Organizational Performance of Tier Three Banks in Nairobi, Kenya
(KeMU, 2025-09) Kinyua, Robert Muchiri
The adoption of alternative banking channels has increasingly influenced how commercial banks in Kenya perform. Notably, services like mobile banking, internet banking, and ATMs are central to enhancing banks’ operational efficiency, improving customer interaction, and driving overall institutional performance. Understanding how these alternative strategies impacted various performance indicators, played a vital role in guiding strategic choices and strengthening competitive advantage in Kenya’s banking industry. The study examined the impact of adopting alternative banking strategies and performance of the commercial banks in the country, grounding its analysis in the Resource-Based theory, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Bank-Led Theory, the research examined how the adoption and strategic integration of alternative strategies affected key performance metrics, including financial performance, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and strategic outcomes. The study utilized a descriptive research approach to evaluate how alternative banking strategies influence performance of tier-three commercial banks operating in Nairobi City. The study focused on all 21 banks in this category, targeting a total population of 2,123 employees spanning senior, middle, and operational levels. Data was gathered using structured questionnaires administered to a purposive sample of 160 staff members across the three management levels. The data analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 26.0, incorporating descriptive, diagnostic, and inferential statistics. Results from the bivariate analysis revealed that mobile banking, agency banking, and internet banking each had a meaningful positive influence on the performance of the banks. When evaluated together in a multivariate context, mobile banking (β = 0.460, p < 0.05), agency banking (β = 0.475, p < 0.05), and internet banking (β = 0.115, p < 0.05) continued to demonstrate statistically significant contributions to enhanced bank performance. In contrast, ATM banking (β = -0.051, p = 0.451) showed no significant effect due to its p-value exceeding the 0.05 threshold. These findings highlight the critical role of digital banking strategies in improving financial outcomes, enhancing customer experiences, and boosting operational efficiency. The study advocates for increased investment in digital infrastructure, greater customer education, and broader use of technology to streamline banking services. Ultimately, the results enrich the current literature on alternative banking and offer practical guidance for banks aiming to enhance performance through digital innovation.
Alternatives to Corporal Punishment for Improving Students’ Discipline In Public Secondary Schools In Eldama Ravine Sub-County, Baringo-Kenya
(KeMU, 2021-09) Kipkertich, Winnie Jeruto
Learning institutions are expected to shape the moral behavior of students by providing code of conduct and ensure compliance to standards rules and regulations. However, due to various reasons, students often do not follow these rules and regulations as characterized by many cases of indiscipline among students in public secondary schools. Despite introduction of alternatives to corporal punishment by government, there are prevalent cases of indiscipline among students in public secondary schools. This study was set out to assess the efficacy of alternatives to corporal punishment as measures for improving students’ discipline in public secondary schools in Eldama Ravine Sub-County, Baringo, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to determine how guidance and counseling, involvement of student leaders in decision making, chaplaincy services, and rules and regulations affected improvement of student discipline in public secondary schools in Eldama Ravine Sub-County, Baringo Kenya. This study was guided by cognitive behavioral theory, contingency theory and Bandura self-efficacy theories. Descriptive survey research design was applied to collect data from 14 public secondary schools in Eldama Ravine sub-county in Baringo Kenya. The respondents were principals, teachers, counselors, chaplains and students. The study selected principals, counsellors and chaplains through census method. Teachers were sampled using simple random sampling technique. The students were first be sampled using stratified sampling method. Second, purposive sampling technique was then be used to only include students who were class prefects for uniformity. Both self-administered questionnaires and interview guides were utilized to collect data. One self-administered questionnaire was answered by teachers, counselors and chaplains while the other questionnaire was answered by students. School principals/deputies were interviewed accordingly. Pre-test enabled checking reliability and validity. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as median, frequencies and percentage. SPSS version 24 was used to analyze the data which was presented using tables and graphs. The overall results showed that the model was valid and was statistically significant, but each construct became insignificant in a combined model. All alternatives to corporal punishments work together (they were jointly significant, (P=0.028) and hence all of them should be emphasized and strengthened to address students’ discipline in secondary schools. The study found out that the secondary schools had put commendable focus on ensuring rules and regulations reduced indiscipline cases in secondary schools. Moreover, there was less attention on the relevance of chaplaincy in secondary schools. Though the government had previously put effort in strategizing to post spiritual leaders to all public secondary schools, three years later, which was yet to be operationalized fully. The study recommended that the ministry of education to liaise with clergy association of Kenya to get qualified chaplains that would be permanently posted in various secondary schools.
The Ameru Traditional naming methods: The effects of Christianity and missionary education on traditional naming culture.
(KeMU, 2014-06) Kioga, Mburugu M'nkanata
In all human communities individuals are identified by names. The process by which these identities are stamped on the person depends on the cultures of the society where the person hails from. Traditionally the Ameru peoples had developed more than two naming methods. The first name of a boy or girl child was given by a caucus of elderly women from the village or family soon after the child was born. The second name given to a Boy-child was by warriors after initiation/circumcision when he was deemed to have attained adulthood. The girl-child never acquired a new or second name until after her marriage. But this traditional system only held sway before the advent of Christianity which invaded the African societies during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Thereafter Christianity supplanted traditional by injecting totally new and strange naming systems and nomenclatures. The research problem on this study therefore was to explore and explain the Ameru traditional naming methods and systems before the advent of Christianity and how these traditions were impacted by it thereafter. The scope of the study endeavors to answer the research questions and to investigate the problem statement in the research proposal and how to achieve the objectives of the study. The geographical area already covered and the targeted population encompass all the six Meru linguistic dialects spoken within the territorial area inhabited by the community. There is considerable scarcity of written literature on this topic within the entire East Africa Region. The research method which was designed for this study encompassed sample survey using purposive or judgmental method. The data collection methods comprised of key informants interviews, selected respondents for interview schedules and group discussion with identified community elders and sages. The questionnaires were administered by the researcher in person among the more literate young parents and youths. The target population was selected from the knowledgeable elderly members of the community from each linguistic dialects of the Meru peoples. Some older respondents who experienced early missionary conversion to Christianity were also interviewed on the methods adopted by the missionaries to convert the populace into Christianity. The limitation experienced in this research is that with scarce written records the researcher has to almost entirely rely on the fading memories of the older generation who are themselves fast fading away. It is therefore strongly recommended that in order to preserve the African traditions and cultures, the educated Africans do record their traditions in permanent records that will guide the future generations of our peoples.
Analysis of Causes and Effects of Occupational Stress on Health Care Workers Performance.A Survey of Tigania East and West Sub-District and District Hospitals
(KeMU, 2010-05) Kainyu, Mugambi Iddah
This study attempted to assess the causes and effect of occupational stress on health care workers performance by taking a case study of Tigania East & Tigania West sub-district and district hospitals. The purpose of the study was to explore the causes and effect of occupational stress on health care workers performance with the aim of identifying strategies for minimizing occupational stress among health care workers. This research adopted descriptive research design and obtained information concerning the current status of stress among health care workers so as to describe "what exists" with respect to work related stress. The first part of the study examined the causes of stress while the second part looked at the effects of such stress on health care workers performance. Both primary and secondary data were used in the research. The sample frame consisted of 96 workers drawn from Mbeu, Mikinduri, Muthara and Miathene sub district and district hospitals. The sample size consisted of 48 workers drawn from the four hospitals. This constituted half of the total number of workers in the four hospitals under study. The 48 study respondents were identified using stratified random sampling method. Questionnaires were issued to the identified respondents who were then required to drop them at a centralized collection point. Out of the 48 questionnaires issued, 4 were not returned whereas 4 were incomplete. Thus, data analysis was based on 40 questionnaires that were fully filled and returned. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis. The data analysis sought to answer research questions of the study According to the regression analysis done, job security, tight work deadlines, low chances for career growth, low salary and lack of working tools were identified as key stressors that result to occupational stress among health care workers in the studied hospitals. In regard to effects of occupational stress on health care workers performance, the study revealed that apart from adversely affecting workers performance, occupational stress also resulted to workers interpersonal conflict (violence at work), strikes, and violence at home. The study therefore recommended that the hospital management should come up with intervention measures that are specifically geared towards addressing the 5 major stressors highlighted by the study. These intervention measures will aim at ensuring that workers have enough and appropriate working tools and supplies, less workload and more realistic work deadlines, enhanced chances for career growth and advancement, greater sense of job security and more attractive salaries and benefits.
An Analysis of Challenges to Integrated Marketing Communication: A Case of Banking Industry in Kenya.
(2011-05) KaruriI, Joseph
The emergence and the development of integrated marketing communication (IMC) has been determined by a number of evolutionary trends in various areas of marketing — the increased fragmentation and segmentation of markets, relationship marketing and direct marketing and information technology on the development of new communication technologies and database applications and communication - increased fragmentation of media audiences, multiplicity and saturation of media channels. The new paradigm of IMC can represents a strategic answer to commercial bank. This was a descriptive survey study aimed at establishing challenges to integrated marketing communications in the banking industry in Kenya. The population of interest of this study was the forty six commercial banks operating in Kenya with their Head offices in Nairobi. The researcher used structured questionnaires as the main data collection instrument. A content analysis and descriptive analysis were employed for data analysis. The content analysis was used to analyze the respondents' views about various challenges to integrated marketing communication among commercial banks in Kenya. The data was then coded to enable the responses to be grouped into various categories. Descriptive statistics such as means, median mode and standard deviation were also used to help in data analysis. Tables and other graphical presentations as appropriate were used to present the data collected for ease of understanding and analysis. Various marketing communication strategies that affects the adoption of integrated marketing communication include ; promotion through advertising, tool of marketing communication, promotion through personal selling, strategic planning of promotion, financial analysis of promotion, sales promotion and promotion through public relations. The study also found that there were of internet marketing strategies in the banking sector which were; product strategies; coordination; framework and relation marketing. The effect of internet technology on the adoption of integrated marketing communication in the banking sector was rated to great extent. On the advancement in the internet technology that affects respondent banks integrated marketing communication they were; internet being slow, vulnerability of internet with risk. The study found that most of the respondent rated integration and coordination of complex information flows between the organizational intranet and the internet as very highly affecting and integration and coordination of communication modes. Integration and coordination of various types of information was rated as highly affecting. From the discussion and conclusion the study recommend that in order for banking industry to implement integrated marketing communication it must address the various challenges that affects the adoption of integrated marketing communication.
An Analysis of Determinants of Internationalization: A Case Study of Selected Kenyan Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment Firms
(KeMU, 2018-09) Mbiadjeu, Paloma Ngassam
Business activities that are organized and carried out across borders to pursue an organization`s stated aims and objectives is referred to as international business. The aim of any organization (national or international) is to maximize their profit and minimize their costs; this is achieved through effective and efficient allocation of its resources in its operations. Selected pharmaceutical and medical equipment present in Kenya were investigated to analyze the determinants of their internationalization. The study`s objectives were to establish the extent to which organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities, market features and regulatory support influenced the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. This study further provided empirical review, conceptual and operational framework. A descriptive research design was used in the study; this design main objective was to clearly describe the persons involved and acquire accurate information from the current situation. Due to this topic being important in the field of international business, this research had for general objective to analyze the determinants that influence the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. It specifically looked at determinants such as: organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities, market features and regulatory support. A census was used to gain access to information from the population members in order to determine their status and how they relate to one or more variables. The study`s sample size consisted 75 respondents out of the targeted 75 respondents. The study used questionnaire method in form of structured questions to collect data from the field. Data was presented and summarized in forms of tables and questionnaires was collected and analyzed so as to acquire relevant data. This study’s results showed that organization`s attributes, decision maker`s abilities and market features influenced the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. The study recommended that Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms should concentrate their efforts on building their decision makers abilities, organization`s attributes and taking advantage of host country market features in achieving internationalization. The study found that organization attributes, with its measures: number of employees, number of years in business operations and product appeal significantly affect the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms, these firms must build up their competencies and strategies in a way to enable them acquire certain features overtime. From the study, decision maker’s abilities and host country market features were also seen as a statistically significant predictor of internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms. These abilities and foreign market features help the organization achieve success both financially and non-financially. Finally, policy makers (host and home country regulators) were seen as a statistically insignificant predictor of the internationalization of selected Kenyan pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms, therefore policy makers should concentrate on building on the competencies and capabilities of organizations whilst formulating and implementing export policies and programs to help increase export volumes.
An Analysis of Effect of Agency Banking on Profitability of Banks In Kenya: A Case of Kenya Commercial Bank
(KeMU, 2022-03) Okayo, Paul
Agency banking is touted as being the solution to the wide spread poverty in most developed countries. The goal of this study was to ascertain how agent banking affected Kenya's commercial banks' profitability. The specific objectives were to determine the effect of agency convenience, agency costs, agency access and agency regulations on commercial banks’ profitability. Using a descriptive approach, the study targeted commercial banks based on the Nairobi CBD. A sample population of 30 out of 111 agents was arrived at. Questionnaires were used to collect the study's data and analysed using qualitative and quantitative data with the aid of SPSS. Tables and figures were used in presenting of the analysed data. This study concluded that cost, convenience, access as well as regulations have a positive effect on the profitability of the banks. The findings will help government, financial institutions, students and scholars alike to improve the life of the population at large.
An Analysis of Factors Determining Water Supply in Kenya.A Case Study of Nanyuki Water and Sewerage Company
(KeMU, 2016-02) Mbogori, Norah
Water supply is one of the most important thing in human life and all the living creatures. It is for this reason that this research sought to analyze factors determining water supply encountered by communities living in and around Nanyuki as a result of water disconnections by water providers. This study sought to analysis factors determining water supply in Laikipia County, Kenya with focus of NA WASCO. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; lifestyle, location of water offices, consumer income and consumer decisions roles as regard to water service provider in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design and target population will comprise consumers whose accounts are active and include a total of 13764 domestic consumers, 804 commercial and 17 industrial consumers total of 14585 based in Nanyuki Town. Multi-stage sampling technique was used where the researcher first divided the target population into clusters and then a simple random sampling technique wasused. From this population, a sample size was drawn of 187 domestic consumers, 13 commercial and 2 industrial consumers totaling to 201 respondents who get water from NAWASCO in Nanyuki town. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages as while as qualitative data which was analyzed using content analysis. The findings were presented using frequency tables, graphs and pie charts. The finding of the study will be significant both to water consumers and water providers in many aspects, where the consumer will benefit from regular and reliable water supply services and water management institutions will also benefit from increased revenue collections from the consumers. The study concludes that consumer lifestyle, consumer location, consumer income and consumer decision have a huge implication on water supply. Multiple linear regression was run to predict the dependent variable; water supply from the independent variables consumer lifestyle, consumer location, and consumer income and consumer decision. The findings indicated that consumer lifestyle, consumer location, consumer income and consumer decision were significantly different from zero. Thus the four variables statistically significantly added to the prediction of water supply in water and sewerage companies. The study recommends that there is need to set up the right institutional framework, development of a consumer based orientation for example through better data coverage more details on consumer behavior and its effects on water supply and there is need for water and sewerage companies to educate the people on reducing the wasteful results of water consumption.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Employees: Work Engagement in Private Universities: A Survey of Kenya Methodist University Administrative and Academic Staff
(KeMU, 2015-06) Ataga, Rodah Asigo
ABSTRACT Employee engagement is the binding of an individual to his or her roles at work whereby employees express themselves cognitively, materially, and expressively while performing their work roles in work engagement. It is a very essential driver for an organization to attain a competitive advantage. Employees who are engaged in their work and committed to their organizations give companies crucial competitive advantages including higher productivity and •1ower employee turnover. This study examined factors influencing employees' work engagement in private .universities; case study of Kenya Methodist University (KeMU). Work engagement entails the active use of emotions in addition to the simple use of cognition while completing work tasks. The study was guided by five specific objectives including testing the level of work vigour, work absorption, work dedication, social demographic factors and organizational support. Five null hypotheses were tested on the acceptability or rejection of five independent variables on the dependent variable. The research methodology used descriptive approach to achieve the research objectives. The research utilized primary data collected through administration of questionnaires. The target population was 561 which were made up of 332 academic staff and 229 administrative staff with a 30% sample size determined. Each stratum was established to select the sample size of 100 academic staff and 69 administrative staff totaling to 169 questionnaires. A total of 112 questionnaires were returned but 92 questionnaires were duly filled and used for data analysis. Multiple liner regression analysis was used to link the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables and to test hypothesis. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square with aid of SPSS was used to analyze the data. From the hypothesis tests, it can be observed that three independent variables had significant association with Employees' Work Engagement: that is, Work Dedication, Work absorption and Organisation Support. Work dedication has a significant influence on employees' work engagement because majority of respondent (89.2%) were inspired by their job. The results also indicated that there was a significant relationship between work absorption and employees work engagement by 89.2% of respondents claiming that they rarely detach themselves from their work. 100% of employees were comfortable with the working environment but majority ( 41 % ) of the employees felt that management sometimes empowers them to do the work. These results revealed that there was no strong evidence to show that social demographic attributes of the employees in KEMU had significant association with Employees' Work Engagement. The research makes various recommendations including organization creating structures to facilitate access to resources, have a working environment with higher levels of job autonomy, low task complexity, supervisory support, and the internal locus of control, and ensure employees maintain high energy levels and mental resilience are willing to exert effort and to persist in difficult times.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Orientation of Social Enterprises in Meru County
(KeMU, 2015-05) Karwanda, Kanyiri Adel
Although entrepreneurship has been studied for thousands of years, social entrepreneurship which considers the practice in which an entrepreneur sets out to solve some social problem by way of combining business management skills with social sector acumen to yield a sustainable enterprise that produces both financial and social returns is quite a challenging area. The main objective of this study was to analyse entrepreneurial orientation among the managers of SACCOs in North Imenti, Meru County. As there are limited studies about Entrepreneurial Orientation in Kenya, this study was expected to contribute significantly to the development of this field. This study was anchored on existing theories in Entrepreneurship namely Psychological Entrepreneurship Theories, Sociological Entrepreneurship Theory, Schumpeter's' Innovation Theory, Entrepreneurial Orientation at the firm Level and Entrepreneurial Orientation at the individual Level based on which the. conceptual framework was derived. A descriptive research design was adopted in conducting this study. Primary data was collected using closed - ended questionnaires. Multiple Logistic Regression analysis was used to analyse data; show the relationship between independent variables (Innovation, Risk-taking, Autonomy, Proactiveness and Aggressiveness) and the dependent variable (Entrepreneurial Orientation); and to test the hypotheses, the researcher used 95% confidence level. Secondary data was collected from higher learning institutional journals. This study ensured all ethical considerations such as confidentiality were highly maintained The total population in the survey was 35 respondents which comprised of managers, in charge of the SACCO's. This research employed census survey, which means all the 35 managers from the 35 SACCOs in Imenti North were respondents for the study. Census survey was appropriate because the total population was small and easily accessible. One of the greatest advantages of a census survey is that all employees have the same opportunity to participate. A census survey tends to enhance feelings of security surrounding the accuracy of the results. Finally, census survey is easier to administer because it includes all persons. Descriptive statistics was used in analysis of data in SPSS (version 20) using Multiple Logistic Regression model to link the relationship between independent variables and dependent variable and to test the hypothesis at 95% confidence level. Descriptive data is summarised and presented in form of frequency tables and percentages. The findings revealed that Innovation, Risk-taking, Autonomy and Proactiveness were the only factors which had significant influence on the entrepreneurial orientation of the managers whereas competitive aggressiveness had insignificant influence. Therefore entrepreneurial acumen and business management skills be classified as the strongest predictors of survival of firms. Hence, the ability to adjust one's business model to adapt to changed economic circumstances is an important characteristic of entrepreneurial conduct that ultimately dictates survival in increasingly competitive economic environments. Therefore, management should understand the importance of these dimensions of the EO which refers to the top management's strategy in relation to innovativeness, proactiveness and risk-taking for the sustainability of the SACCO's as forms of social enterprises.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Growth of Micro and Small Enterprises Dealing in Information Communication Technologies
(KeMU, 2011-04) Kiretai, James
This study was carried out to analyze the factors influencing the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT in selected businesses in Nyeri Town. Understanding the factors that influence the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT would inspire the players in the sector to come up with methods of boosting their growth and thus reap the maximum benefits that accrue. The general objective of the study was to analyze the factors that influence the growth of MSEs dealing in ICT with special reference to such businesses in Nyeri Town of Kenya. In the research the Survey design was used. The sampling frame included all MSEs dealing in ICT in Nyeri town. There is still not much of a common body of well-founded knowledge about the causes, effects or processes of growth. Moreover, although several determinants of firm growth have been suggested, researchers have been unable to achieve a consensus regarding the factors leading to firm growth. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to carry out an analysis of the factors that influence growth of MSEs dealing in ICT in Nyeri town after which the results were then generalized to cover the whole country. Moreover, there are several conceptual and empirical challenges in the study of firm's growth (Delmar, 2007). Firm growth in general refers to increase in size. The most frequently used measure for growth has been change in the firm's turnover. Another typical measure for growth has been increase in the number of employees. In order to create a conducive and enabling business environment for growth, there is need to carry out a detailed examination of the factors that influence growth of ICT related micro and small enterprises. Data was hence collected from such selected businesses in Nyeri town through the use of questionnaires using the drop and pick method. Data collected was then analyzed and quantitatively interpreted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Pie charts and tables were then used to present data in an easy way to interpret. In this way, the outcome of the study would try to help the micro and small enterprises dealing in ICT to start and stay afloat. The findings of the study would be useful to the government in formulating regulations concerning the sector. Further, the government would, on the basis of the findings of the study determine ways of spurring growth in the sector by removing the impediments to the growth. On the other hand the outcome of the study would help to bridge the information gap that exists on the factors influencing the growth of MSEs dealing in JCT and provide ways by which the challenges could be surmounted. This would go a long way in catalyzing the growth of ICT sector and entrepreneurship in Kenya.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Implementation of Anticorruption Strategies by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission in Kenya
(KeMU, 2022-10) Kireri, Jeremiah
Corruption has had major worldwide monetary, social and political repercussions, resulting to drained economies and breakdown of administrative and operational frameworks, dwindling public trust, bringing about scorn for the standard of law, mutilating the allotment of assets, and subverting rivalry in the commercial center. This study was set out to analyze factors influencing implementation of anti-corruption strategies at Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. It was conducted in EACC headquarters at integrity centre in Nairobi. The objectives of the study were: to determine the relationship of financial factors, human capital, managerial competencies and implementation of anti-corruption strategies. This study was guided by two theories namely: the Noble‘s strategic implementation model and the white collar crime theories. This study used a case study exploration design. Employees of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission in key departments were targeted. A sample of 85 was used. Stratified random sampling was used. The questionnaire was self-administered. The validity and reliability of the instrument were confirmed by pr-testing. SPSS was used to evaluate the data using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. It was discovered throughout the research that anti-corruption measures were being implemented ineffectively. The analysis revealed that the EACC's inability to adopt anti-corruption tactics was due to a lack of resources. There was lack of integrity at EACC. Results showed that EACC had a good institutional framework a fair stakeholder support in the implementation of anti-corruption strategies. All the independent variables were significant. Regression analysis showed that stakeholder support was the most affecting variable. The study concluded that there is inadequate resource allocation, lack of integrity and insufficient stakeholder support are responsible for poor implementation of anti-corruption strategies at EACC. The study recommended that national assembly of Kenya should allocate more financial resources to EACC to enhance the capacity of the agency. The study also recommended that the agency should align its framework with the latest recommendations of The International Organization Convention on Corruption. EACC should also adopt a stakeholder engagement plan to enable greater public participation and civil society engagement in fighting corruption.