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Effects of Burnout Syndrome on Work Performance of Employees at Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council, Nairobi, Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in Counselling PsychologyThis study aimed to examine burnout syndrome and its effects on work performance among employees at the TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment, and Certification Council (CDACC) in Nairobi, Kenya. It intended to identify the prevalence of burnout, assess the associated risk factors, evaluate the effects on work performance, and explore coping strategies for enhancing performance among TVET CDACC employees. The study was grounded by two theories: the job demand resources theory (JD-R) theory and the multi-dimensional Maslach theory, which aim to clarify how workplace demands, resources, and perceived imbalances between effort and rewards contribute to burnout and affect work performance. The study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, targeting 90 participants, of which 82 successfully participated. This included 75 TVET CDACC employees and 7 representatives from TVET institutions within Nairobi County. CDACC employees were selected through census and stratified random sampling, while TVET institutions were chosen through a combination of simple random and purposive sampling methods. Data collection involved the use of tailored questionnaires, interviews with key informants, and document analysis. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive, inferential, and thematic methods. Findings related to burnout prevalence revealed that 44% of respondents reported low exhaustion levels, 37% moderate levels, and 19% high levels. Regarding depersonalization, 48% of respondents exhibited low depersonalization levels, 32% moderate levels, and 20% high levels. Additionally, 45% of respondents reported low personal achievement levels, 39% moderate levels, and 16% high levels. Contributing factors to burnout syndrome included a heavy workload, lack of supportive working conditions, unclear job responsibilities, and minimal control over job tasks. Burnout syndrome's impact on work performance was significant, with 36% of respondents showing poor task performance, reflecting difficulties in managing tasks and completing them on time. The study also highlighted that 29% of the respondents performed poorly in their contextual roles, indicating a limited tendency to go beyond basic job requirements such as assisting colleagues or taking initiative. Moreover, 24% of respondents frequently engaged in counterproductive behaviours, which negatively impacted workplace productivity. It was concluded that burnout syndrome significantly reduces employee productivity and compromises the quality of output. Recommendations were made for the management of TVET CDACC to take proactive measures, including reviewing employee workloads, to inform and implement strategies that would create a more conducive and supportive working environment, ultimately boosting employee productivity.Daystar University, School of Applied Human Science
COM 684X: Theories Of Development Communication
No full textCOM 684X: Theories Of Development CommunicationDaystar Universit
Assessment of Stress, Depression and Anxiety Among Pastors in African Inland Church, Kitui Area Church Council, Kitui County, Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in Clinical PsychologyStress is a common human experience. However, chronic stress can lead to devastating physical, psychological and behavioral consequences. Research has indicated that some professions are more prone to stress than others. Pastoral work is one of those professions and it is characterized by diverse stressors which make pastors prone to depression and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to assess for the presence and prevalence of stress, depression and anxiety among pastors in the African Inland Church, Kitui Area Church Council. The study was guided by the following objectives: to determine the prevalence of the three conditions, to investigate their determinants, to establish pastor’s coping strategies, and to explore the support systems at the church organizational level in helping pastors cope with the conditions. The study was guided by the transactional model of stress and coping and the job demands-resources theories. Descriptive research design was employed. The target population was 551 pastors from nine Regional Church Councils making Kitui Area Church Council. Stratified sampling and simple random sampling were used to sample 111 respondents for the study. Quantitative data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and qualitative data through focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS Version 26 and presented in tables while qualitative data was analyzed using NVivo version 12. The study established the prevalence rate of moderate to extremely severe stress, depression, and anxiety at 68%, 56% and 60% respectively. A comorbidity rate of 30% of moderate to extremely severe stress, depression and anxiety was established. Financial challenges, workload, conflicts with church elders, role confusion and discrimination against female pastors were identified as the main stressors encountered by pastors. In terms of coping mechanisms, a mixture of problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies were identified to be utilized by the pastors in the Area Church Council. The organizational structures identified were financial help in terms of special giving, annual leaves as well as the building of residential houses for pastors in the church compounds. The study findings underpin the researcher’s recommendation for the development and implementation of comprehensive stress management strategies for pastors, integrating mental health training in the curriculum for pastors and sensitization of the congregation and the society at large on mental health issues affecting pastors. In addition, the researcher identified exploring of challenges faced by female pastors in African Inland Church as well as exploring the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy as areas recommended for further study.Daystar University, School of Applied Human Science
Framing of Development Messages by Communication Specialists: A Case of Compassion International, Kenya.
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in CommunicationThe challenges communication specialists at Compassion International Kenya face in effectively framing development messages, can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and reduced impact. The purpose of this research was to assess how these communication specialists frame development messages to influence diverse audiences. The study was guided by four specific objectives: identifying the most salient media frame, determining whether the framing was thematic or episodic, evaluating the valence (positive or negative) of the framing, and assessing the correlation between thematic/episodic framing and valence. Framing Theory was used as the theoretical foundation, exploring how information presentation influences audience interpretation. A content analysis methodology was employed, supported by descriptive research design. A qualitative research approach was adopted, focusing on in-depth message analysis. The population included blog posts by Compassion International Kenya between January and August 2022, with a sample of 56 articles selected through purposive sampling to ensure relevance. The findings revealed that thematic framing, focusing on broader societal issues, was more commonly employed than episodic framing. Positive valence framing was frequently used, emphasizing success stories and fostering stakeholder optimism. A strong correlation between thematic framing and positive valence was observed, indicating that the communication specialists strategically frame messages to create an uplifting narrative. Additionally, positive valence framing helped sustain donor engagement and reinforced the organization's credibility, suggesting its effectiveness in achieving Compassion International Kenya’s communication objectives. The study recommends that Compassion International Kenya continue using thematic and positive framing techniques to enhance audience engagement. Further training for communication specialists is suggested to improve the efficacy of message delivery. These findings can serve as a valuable model for other faith-based organizations to enhance their development communication strategies
The Role of Impulsivity in Mitigating Risk-Taking Behaviors among Emerging Adults in Kenya.
No full textDOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in Clinical PsychologyRisk-taking behaviors are prevalent among emerging adults at the university with risk-taking commonly associated with impulsivity. However, understanding of the role of impulsivity on risk-taking behaviors, has relied heavily on data from the Western world. This research thus sought to establish the relationship between impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors of the emerging adults in Kenya. The Maturation-Gap Hypothesis, Sensation Seeking Theory and Theory of Planned Behavior guided this quantitative research design which employed a survey followed by a task-based experiment. A sample of 297 participants was used for the survey and then stratified random sampling was used to select 12 participants for the experiment. Assessment tools included a demographic and risk-taking questionnaire, BIS-11, NODS-CLiP and the Balloon Analogue Risk Task. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted using SPSS (version 28) and Inquisit Software. Results showed that 61.3% of the students engaged in risk-taking behaviors of interest with 26.9% of them involved in multiple risk-taking behaviors. Male students were more likely to report high-risk sexual behaviors and problem gambling while female students were more likely to report suicidality. There was no significant gender difference in binge drinking or participation in multiple risk-taking behaviors. Risk-taking was not significantly associated with trait impulsivity except for suicidality which was significantly associated with attentional impulsivity. There was a small, positive, non-significant correlation between trait and cognitive impulsivity. These findings underscore a need for gender-specific mitigation programs, targeting multiple risk-taking behaviors, within institutions of higher learning in Kenya. Passive psychoeducation was employed to disseminate data and mitigate risk-taking behaviors encountered
Turnaround Strategies and Performance of Kenya Power and Lighting Company
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in Strategic ManagementThe energy sector in Kenya is plagued by inefficiencies, leading to higher costs and reduced access to electricity for many consumers. The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of turnaround strategies on the performance of KPLC. The study objectives were to find out the turnaround strategies implemented by Kenya Power and Lighting Company, to establish the performance of Kenya Power and Lighting Company, to evaluate the effect of turnaround strategies on the performance of Kenya Power and Lighting Company and to assess the moderating effect of government policies on the relationship between the turnaround strategies and the performance of KPLC. The research was guided by two theories strategic turnaround theory and the stage theory of successful turnaround, and Porter’s Five model. This study was a census of all 60 employees including managers and heads of units working at KPLC Busia branch. An explanatory research design was adopted. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. The outcomes were presented in tables and figures. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis and presented in prose form. Key findings revealed that KPLC has implemented the following turnaround strategies, which are; technology adoption, cost efficient, asset retrenchment, and strategic repositioning, all aimed at improving performance. Regarding technology adoption, 547% of respondents agreed that KPLC demonstrates a proactive approach to technology adoption, while 47.4% reported that the company conducts pre-testing of products or services before their adoption. 63.2% of the respondents displayed that KPLC developed specific cost-efficient strategies. 45.6% of respondents pointed out that KPLC conducts a thorough analysis of its operational costs while 49.1% highlighted that KPLC leverages technology and automation tools to improve cost efficiency across various business processes. KPLC considers the impact of asset retrenchment on its employees, as highlighted by 35.1% of respondents, while 43.9% of participants noted that asset retrenchment helps KPLC achieve its cost-saving targets. Only 31.1% of respondents indicated that KPLC communicates the reasons for asset retrenchment to relevant stakeholders and 35.1% of participants believed that strategic repositioning is seen as a viable strategy for achieving long-term success at KPLC. 43.9% of the participants highlighted that key stakeholders are consulted in the decision-making process regarding strategic repositioning. The findings demonstrated that technology adoption has had a significant impact on KPLC's market share, with 47.4% of participants citing this as a key driver. 45.6% of respondents highlighted that cost-efficient strategies have contributed to increasing the company’s market share, indicating that streamlining operations and reducing costs have had a positive effect on competitiveness. Lastly, 49.1% of respondents noted that strategic repositioning has also led to an increase in market share. Additionally, government policies were found to significantly influence KPLC’s strategic decision-making. The study concluded that while turnaround strategies positively affect performance, success relies on clear execution plans, stakeholder involvement, and consideration of intervening factors. The study recommends greater involvement of stakeholders in strategy execution and encourages future research to include other companies to validate the link between turnaround strategies and firm performance
LLB 303: Copyright and Neighbouring Rights
No full textLLB 303: Copyright and Neighbouring RightsDaystar Universit
Localized AI-Driven Remote Monitoring and Predictive Analytics to Enhance Maternal Health in Rural Kenya: Bridging Accessibility and High-Risk Pregnancy Management
No full textConference PaperMaternal health services in rural Kenya face significant challenges including limited access to healthcare facilities, a shortage of trained healthcare personnel, and inadequate monitoring of high-risk pregnancies. These factors contribute to high maternal and infant mortality rates. Current advancements in AI offer a potential solution to these issues, yet their application in this specific context remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a localized AI-driven remote monitoring system that utilizes predictive analytics for early detection and continuous management of high-risk pregnancies. This system will be integrated with a mobile health (mHealth) application designed to disseminate crucial health information and reminders to expectant mothers. The primary objective is to enhance maternal health outcomes by leveraging advanced AI technologies tailored to the local context of rural Kenya. The research will begin with a needs assessment through surveys and focus group discussions with local healthcare providers and expectant mothers to identify specific challenges and requirements. Based on these insights, a localized AI-driven remote monitoring system will be developed to track high-risk pregnancies, while predictive analytics will be employed to forecast potential complications. Additionally, the mHealth application will provide critical health information and timely reminders. The effectiveness of these interventions will be evaluated using a quasi-experimental design, comparing maternal and infant mortality rates, healthcare accessibility, and user satisfaction between intervention and control groups. This research aims to demonstrate the transformative potential of AI in addressing maternal health challenges in rural Kenya, offering a scalable model for similar regions globally. Anticipated outcomes include reduced maternal and infant mortality rates, improved healthcare access, and enhanced delivery of maternal health services.Daystar Universit
Voter Apathy Among the Youth in Kenya: A Case Study of Kibra Constituency, 2022 General Elections
No full textMASTER OF ARTS
In Diplomacy, Development, and International Security.Voter apathy is a widespread issue that affects the political landscape in many countries, including Kenya. It is often driven by disillusionment, a lack of political awareness, and a sense of powerlessness among the electorate. This phenomenon leads to low voter turnout, particularly among the youth, which is concerning because it results in the underrepresentation of young people's voices in decision-making processes. When youth fail to vote in significant numbers, it weakens the democratic legitimacy of elected officials, reduces trust in political systems, and impedes social progress. Understanding the factors that influence youth voter participation is essential to building a more inclusive democracy that accurately reflects the needs and concerns of younger generations. The issue of voter apathy among youth was examined in the context of Kenya's Kibra Constituency during the 2022 general elections. This study explored the various factors that either encouraged or discouraged political engagement among young voters in this economically and socially diverse area. Using a mixed-method approach, the research gathered data through quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and focus group discussions to gain a deeper understanding of the problem. The findings revealed several significant factors influencing voter apathy among the youth. Among the major aspects recognized was socio-economic conditions. Issues such as unemployment, lack of quality education, and low-income levels were found to contribute significantly to political disengagement. Many young people in Kibra face economic hardships, which diverts their attention away from political participation, as their focus shifts towards day-to-day survival. Furthermore, ethnic divisions and disparities within the constituency were also found to influence political participation, with some youths feeling marginalized or excluded from the political process due to their ethnic background. In addition to socio-economic factors, media literacy and access to political information were highlighted as crucial influencers of youth political engagement. In Kibra, many young people lack access to accurate, unbiased information, which hampers their ability to make informed decisions during elections. Furthermore, the quality of political campaigns was noted to play a significant role in shaping young voters' perceptions of political candidates and the overall electoral process. Youths often feel disconnected from politicians who fail to address their concerns or appear insincere during campaigns. Leadership quality, corruption, and the rule of law also emerged as key factors affecting youth voter turnout. Many young voters expressed frustration with corrupt leaders and perceived a lack of accountability in the political system. This lack of trust in leadership discourages political participation, as youths feel their vote will not lead to meaningful change. In light of these results, the study provided several recommendations. Policies that promote economic stability, particularly in marginalized areas like Kibra, are essential for reducing youth voter apathy. Strengthening education systems, especially vocational training and job opportunities, can empower young citizens and encourage greater political engagement. Additionally, promoting media literacy and access to accurate information is crucial in enabling informed voting decisions. Finally, fostering unity among diverse ethnic communities, advocating for accountable leadership, and emphasizing community-centered initiatives were proposed as effective measures to combat voter apathy and strengthen Kenya's democratic process.Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Science