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Skills Requirements for a Knowledge Economy as a Determinant of Private Demand for Postgraduate Studies in Selected Universities in Kenya
No full textAlthough there has been a consistent increase in private demand for postgraduate studies in Kenyan universities, recent trends indicate a decline in postgraduate enrolment. This decline presents potential challenges in attaining both the objectives of the universities and Kenya's Vision 2030. Existing literature highlights that the decision to pursue postgraduate studies is influenced by various factors, one of which is skills requirements for a knowledge economy. Within this context, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate how skills requirements for a knowledge economy affects private demand for postgraduate studies in selected universities in Kenya. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, the study combined both quantitative and qualitative approaches to comprehensively examine the effects of skills requirements for a knowledge economy on private demand for postgraduate studies. The target population comprised all 60,515 students enrolled in Master's and PhD programmes in both public and private chartered universities in Kenya during the research period. The study employed a systematic random sampling technique to select 395 Master's and PhD students from four public chartered universities and three private chartered universities, which were purposefully selected. Data collection was done through the use of questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic and content analysis. The regression model for skills requirements for a knowledge economy and private demand for postgraduate studies, yielded a regression coefficient of B = .447, signifying significance. However, with a probability level of p = .099 > .05 (at a significant level of p < .05), skills requirements for a knowledge economy emerged as a non-significant predictor of private demand for postgraduate studies. The study reveals that while pursuing postgraduate studies increases an individual's competitiveness and standing within an organization, it falls short of providing all the crucial skills required by the labour market. To address this, the study advocates for the integration of innovative studies into postgraduate programmess in universities in Kenya, thereby expanding the training institutions' offerings to meet the country's advanced skills needs. The study further recommends enhanced collaboration between universities and employers in both the private and public sectors, as well as relevant industries in the labour market. This partnership would facilitate the provision of accurate information, training opportunities, and employment prospects for postgraduate students, ultimately bridging the gap between their education and the skills demanded by the labour market.
Keywords: Skills requirements, Knowledge economy, Private demand, Postgraduate studies
Effect of Teacher Competence on Performance of Learners in Numeracy and Literacy in Rwanda: A Case Study of Public Primary Grade One of Bugesera District
No full textThe main purpose of this research was to examine the effect of teacher competence on performance of P1 learners in numeracy and literacy in public primary schools in Rwanda. Specifically, this study also aims three objectives; to identify qualification levels of teachers in public primary schools, to assess the level of performance of P1 learners in Numeracy and Literacy in public primary schools, and to determine the relationship between teacher qualifications and performance of P1 learners in numeracy and literacy in public primary schools in Bugesera District, Rwanda. Interview guide and questionnaires were used as the primary instruments for data collection. The study, conducted in Bugesera District, Rwanda, involved 122 participants comprising 56 head teachers, 56 Directors of Studies, and 10 Sector Education Officers from public primary schools. The sample size was determined using the Slovene’s formula for the study's statistical significance. The analysis of the data was performed using SPSS version 26, employing inferential statistics to ascertain correlations and regression between variables. Findings indicated a positive trend, with a mean qualification level of 4.35 for head teachers and Directors of Studies, showcasing their capacity to aid student learning. Moreover, the overall mean qualification level for teachers in Bugesera District was 4.26, suggesting a perceived impact on learners' performance. The study also revealed promising results for P1 learners in literacy and numeracy, with a mean of 3.84 signifying good grades, and a mean of 4.31 indicating their enthusiasm for science. Overall, the participants indicated a mean of 4.06, suggesting satisfaction with the learners' performance. On correlation between qualification level of teachers and learners’ performance in literacy and numeracy, the findings revealed that there was a statistical significance relationship between qualification level of teachers and learners’ performance with P-value = .000 which was less than 0.05 as the level of significance. Pearson coefficient of correlation r = .891 which was high and indicated that there was a relationship between the qualification level of teachers and learners’ performance in literacy and numeracy. The study concluded that that the qualification of teachers’ successfully influences the learners’ performance in literacy and numeracy. It recommended that The Ministry of Education should regularly verify the standards of qualification level of teachers to make sure that teachers are well equipped with suitable competence to support the learners.
Keywords: Teacher Competence, Performance of Learners, Numeracy and Literacy, Public Primary Grade One, Bugesera District, Rwand
Effect of English as a Medium of Instruction on Academic Performance of Students in Geography Subject in Public Secondary Schools in Rwanda
No full textTeachers’ competency in the usage of English as a medium of instruction plays a significant role in the promotion of students’ understanding as well as academic performance. The purpose of this study therefore sought to establish a relationship between English usage as a medium of instruction and the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Ngororero district in Rwanda. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and a correlation research design. The target population was 303 people corresponding to the sample size of 172 respondents by using Solvin’s formula. Interview guide, direct observation and questionnaire were used as research instruments for data collection. Through SPSS version 26 used in data management, the findings revealed that 75.3% of head teachers strongly agree that speaking skills, 74.7% of reading skills, and 71.1% of writing skills indicate English usage as a medium of instruction. The results also indicates that 87.9% of geography teachers believe exam scores indicate academic performance, 94.8% believe reading and writing abilities indicate success, 89.7% believe speaking geographical terms indicates academic performance, 79.3% believe students use English in classroom presentations, and 93.1% believe the success rate in geography reflects academic performance. Results shows that there is a statistically significant positive relationship between English usage as a medium of instruction and the academic performance of students in geography indicated that most measures were positively associated with each other. The study concludes that a high percentage of both teachers and students strongly agree that English is essential in various aspects of teaching and learning, such as speaking, reading, and writing skills. Head teachers and geography teachers, in particular, strongly linked English usage to academic performance in geography. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education should organize some programs that can motivate the learners, such as English reading, speaking, listening, writing, and singing competitions. It is crucial for schools to invest in teacher training focused on enhancing English language skills. Authorities should also provide ample teaching materials in English, expand public libraries, and encourage a stronger reading culture among students by leveraging resources like radio and TV programs in English.
Keywords: Academic performance, Medium of instruction, Official language and public secondary school, Rwand
Students Discipline Factors and Academic Performance in Mathematics Subject in Public Boarding Secondary Schools in Rulindo District
No full textThe study focused on understanding the role of student discipline in the mathematical performance of students in public secondary boarding schools in Rulindo District, Rwanda. The investigation encompassed four schools: E.S Nyamugali, E.SES Rukozo, Inyange Girls' School of Sciences, and LNDV Girls' School, both at O’level and A’level, with a total student population of 1761. The research sought to evaluate how students' self-discipline affects their progress in mathematics, and the overall academic progress in the subject across the selected schools. Using the Yamane method, a sample size of 328 students along with 20 mathematics teachers and discipline masters was determined. Data collected through questionnaires revealed a strong consensus among students and teachers that good behavior and regular class attendance are crucial for academic success in mathematics. In addition, the research findings highlighted that 45.3% of respondents strongly agree that discipline is a significant factor in promoting hard work and success in mathematics. Classroom environment and conditions were also recognized as vital elements contributing to students' performance, with a majority indicating favorable classroom spaces as beneficial for both teaching and learning of the subject. The analysis also uncovered that teaching methodologies, educational resources, and teacher self-perception, along with school support in mathematics, significantly impact students' performance. Over half of the respondents agreed that these factors are influential. However, the findings showed mixed responses regarding the competitive culture among students affecting performance, with some disagreement about the extent of its influence. In conclusion, the study advocates for increased focus on discipline and the provision of a conducive learning environment to enhance students' mathematical abilities.
Keywords: Students Discipline, Academic Performance, Mathematics Subject, Public Boarding, Secondary Schools
 
Impact of Teaching through Improvisation on Academic Performance in Mathematics among Students in Public Day Schools in Nyarugenge District
No full textThe education system in Rwanda has been undergoing continuous development, yet it faced several challenges, including insufficient teaching and learning resources in secondary schools, attributed to inadequate planning and corruption. This study focused on examining the impact of teaching and learning resources on academic performance in secondary school mathematics within Rwanda's Nyarugenge district. The research employed a descriptive survey design, with a total population of 250 senior five students. From this population, 242 students were randomly selected from nine schools across the three divisions of Nyarugenge district, representing a subset of 24 schools. Intact classes were chosen for the study. The schools were categorized into co-educational day, co-educational boarding, boys' boarding, and girls' boarding, providing a comprehensive representation of the educational landscape. A validated research instrument, the Student Questionnaire on Performance (SQP), with a reliability coefficient of 0.437, was utilized for data collection. The study aimed to address three research questions, and the gathered data underwent analysis through multiple regression analysis to draw meaningful insights. In summary, this research delved into the relationship between teaching and learning resources and academic performance in secondary school mathematics in Nyarugenge district, Rwanda, employing a methodologically sound approach to generate valuable findings for the ongoing improvement of the education system. This study investigated the influence of incorporating improvisation-based teaching methods on the academic performance of students in mathematics within public day schools in Nyarugenge District. The research aimed to explore the effectiveness of improvisational teaching techniques in enhancing students' understanding and proficiency in mathematics. The study employed a mixed-methods research design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A sample of students from public day schools in Nyarugenge District participated, with an experimental group exposed to improvisation-based mathematics instruction, while a control group received traditional teaching methods. Academic performance data were collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments, including standardized tests and class assignments. The study revealed that the Pearson correlation analysis showed that improvisation (r=0.775, p=0.000) was positively and significantly related to students’ academic performance. The correlation was also statistically significant since the p-value was less than 5%. In addition to quantitative measurements, qualitative data were gathered through observations, interviews, and focus group discussions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the students' experiences and perceptions of the improvisational teaching approach. The anticipated outcomes of this research included insights into the effectiveness of improvisation in fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, as well as its impact on students' motivation and engagement. The findings from this study aimed to contribute valuable information to educational practitioners, policymakers, and researchers, with the goal of enhancing teaching methodologies and improving academic outcomes in mathematics within the context of public day schools in Nyarugenge District. This study aspired to unveil the effectiveness of improvisational teaching in fostering a deeper grasp of mathematical concepts, as well as its potential impact on student's motivation and engagement. The findings aimed to contribute valuable insights to educators, policymakers, and researchers, with the overarching objective of refining teaching methodologies and elevating academic outcomes in mathematics within the landscape of public day schools in Nyarugenge District.
Keywords: Improvisation, teaching, Students, academic performance, and Mathematic
Decentralization in Public Policy and Governance of Public Services in Alaska, USA
No full textPublic policy is developed through a process of policy analysis, debate, and decision-making, involving various stakeholders such as government officials, civil society organizations, and citizens. . Effective decentralization requires careful planning, institutional design, and monitoring and evaluation to ensure that it promotes good governance and produces positive outcomes for citizens. Effective governance structures and processes are necessary to develop and implement effective public policies, while well-designed public policies can help to promote good governance by fostering transparency, accountability, and participation. The research used the descriptive research design. The target population was 40 public officers in Alaska, USA. Questionnaires were utilized to gather the data. The study found that decentralization in the public policy and governance of public services in Alaska, USA have significant effects on the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of the system. By transferring decision-making authority and responsibilities from central government entities to local or regional authorities, decentralization allows for increased local autonomy and tailored decision-making. Local authorities, such as municipalities or regional governments, have a better understanding of the specific needs and priorities of their communities. The study concluded that decentralization in public policy and governance of public services in Alaska has the potential to enhance local responsiveness, citizen engagement, and overall effectiveness of public service delivery, while also necessitating careful attention to address potential challenges and ensure equitable outcomes. The study recommended that effective implementation of decentralization in the public policy and governance of public services requires strengthening governance structures, capacity building, fostering citizen participation, ensuring equitable resource allocation, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. Decentralization requires solid institutional capacity at all levels of government to ensure that policies are effectively implemented and resources are efficiently utilized. Monitoring and evaluation are critical to assessing the effectiveness of decentralization efforts and identifying areas for improvement
Keywords: Decentralization, public policy, governance, public services, US
Regional Integration Efforts and Political Cooperation of East African Community: A Case of Rwanda
No full textThe main purpose of the research was to assess the role of regional integration in political cooperation among EAC member states. The specific goals were to examine the effect of economic initiatives on political cooperation, to assess the effect of policy harmonization on EAC political cooperation in the case of Rwanda, and to investigate the relationship between diplomatic efforts and EAC political cooperation in the case of Rwanda. The study's insights on Rwanda-EAC dynamics foster stronger political collaboration, guiding EAC policy decisions. It informs Rwanda's diplomatic strategy, enhances cross-border cooperation within the EAC, and serves as a foundational resource for future research and policy recommendations. The study employs Institutional Liberalism Theory, Neo-Functionalism Theory, and Intergovernmentalism Theory to examine how international institutions, spill over effects, and intergovernmental decision-making shape regional integration and political cooperation within the EAC. The interview guide and questionnaire were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from the field using a descriptive research design. Interviews were conducted with 30 respondents crossing the Gatuna Border using the convenient sampling technique. 68 respondents were selected from the ministry of foreign affairs based on a purposive sampling method to fill out the questionnaire from their respective offices, making 98 respondents out of 274 people in the target population. The results revealed that the evaluation of economic initiatives revealed strong support for their positive impact on EAC's political cooperation, reflected in high mean scores (4.886 to 4.989) and significant Pearson correlation coefficients (0.322 to 0.674, p < 0.01). Similarly, policy harmonization demonstrated positive effects on political cooperation, evident in high mean scores (4.896 to 4.969) and strong Pearson correlation coefficients (0.452 to 0.702, p < 0.01). Effective diplomatic efforts were found to significantly foster political cooperation, indicated by high mean scores (4.824 to 4.958) and moderate to strong Pearson correlation coefficients (0.245 to 0.914). In conclusion, these results underscore the pivotal roles of economic initiatives, policy harmonization, and diplomatic efforts in strengthening political collaboration within the EAC. The study suggests prioritizing continuous dialogue and mutual understanding among EAC diplomats, emphasizing policy harmonization and regional integration. Rwanda, as an EAC member state, should actively engage in integration efforts, while all member states should strive for collaborative decision-making and standardized policies. Citizens and leadership should support initiatives for economic growth and regional cooperation.
Keywords: Regional Integration Efforts, Political Cooperation, East African Community, Rwand
Projects Alignment Strategies and Performance of Rwandan Selected Cooperatives: A Case of Cooperative Development Project
No full textThe main purpose of this research was to assess the effect of projects alignment strategies on Rwandan selected cooperatives performance. The study was guided by three specific objectives which were to assess the effect of technology implementation on performance of cooperative development project, to evaluate the impact of organizational requirements on performance of cooperative development project and to examine the relationship between objective determination and performance of cooperative development project in Rwanda. The descriptive research design was used to analyze the collected data through questionnaire and interview guide into descriptive statistics with mean and standard deviation and inferential statistics with Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis. The data were collected from 116 respondents who were selected using census method because the target population was manageable and reasonable for this study. The results of the first objective revealed that revealed that technology implementation has r=0.00 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with schedule performance, (r=0.832 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with budget performance, and (r=0.769 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with quality performance which implies that there is a positive and significant relationship between technology implementation and performance of cooperative development project in Rwanda. The results of the second objective revealed that organizational requirement has (r=0.781 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with schedule performance, (r=0.891 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with budget performance, and (r=0.747 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with quality performance implying that there is a positive and significant relationship between organizational requirement and performance of cooperative development project in Rwanda. The results of the third objective revealed that objective determination has (r=0.820 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with schedule performance, (r=0.786 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with budget performance and (r=0.807 and sig=0.00 < 0.01) with quality performance implying that there is a positive and significant relationship between objective determination and performance of cooperative development project in Rwanda. Thus, recommendations were made to government to ensure that reliable and affordable internet and ICT infrastructure are built to ensure that most of the projects have access to internet and other technological advancement, and beneficiaries and stakeholders as well as employees are recommend to participation in providing priorities and accessing the local community before determining the objective of the project and setting up organizational requirement in order to enhance performance which is significant to the whole community.
Keywords: Alignment Strategies, Project Performance, Cooperative Development Project, Rwanda 
Strategic Decision-Making Approaches and Organizational Performance Case of Rugarama Estate Park, Rwanda
No full textDecision making is a critical role that managers of organizations play and gives a bearing on the long-term survival of the organization. The study aimed to assess the influence of strategic decision making on organizational performance, taking the case of Rugarama Estate Park. Descriptive design was utilized with a population of 153 constituting of staff of Rugarama Estate Park as per the Human Resource records. A sample of 111 was utilized and purposive and simple random sampling approaches adopted in selecting the respondents to participate in study. The data was primary in nature collected using questionnaires. The study adopted theory of planned behavior. IBM SPSS Version 21 was used in analyzing data. The findings involved computing means, percentages, and frequencies, standard deviation and these were presented in tables. Descriptive statistics did reveal a mean of averagely 2 and less than 1 standard deviation in the case of advocacy decision making approach. However, dialogic and decision systems revealed an average mean of 4. Additionally, the corresponding coefficients for advocacy, dialogic and decision support systems were 0.260, 0.670 and 0.710 respectively. The regression coefficients for advocacy, dialogic and decision support systems were 0.092, 0.142 and 0.174 respectively with corresponding p values of 0.048, 0.002 and 0.001. This implied that advocacy decision making is not widely practiced while dialogic and decision support systems are widely practiced at Rugarama Estate Park. Study also concluded there was low positive significant association between advocacy approach and organization performance while dialogic and decision-making support systems had high positive association with organization performance. The null hypotheses were rejected hence a conclusion there was positive significant influence of advocacy, dialogic and decision support systems on organization performance. The study recommended independent and group thinking to be practiced in organization in decision making process, proposals regarding decision changes should be made available to members and every member given time to go through, all Stakeholders to be involved in decision making process to be able to feel part and parcel of the organization activities and lastly organizations to invest in technology systems that aids in speedy and efficient decision making process..
Keywords: Strategic Decision Making, Organizational Performance, Rugarama Estate Park, Rwand
Conceptualised Framework of the Mediating Role of the Economic Factor of the Business Environment
No full textThe purpose of this paper was to conceptually examine the mediating role of the economic factor of the business environment and lay a foundation of its effect on organizations survival or demise. This paper lays a comprehensive review on economic factor of the business environment and organization resilience and survival. Thus, for any business that intendents to continue its everyday operations, must devise ways to be resilient and survive by always scanning the environment it finds itself in, as well as being aware of the economic policies put in place by the government in power.
Keywords: Business Environment, Economic Factor, Government Policies, Organizational Resilience, Organizational Survival