Master Theses and Dissertations
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Item The Influence of Selected School Characteristics on Principals’ Perceptions on The Effectiveness of School Based Teacher Recruitment Policy in Public Secondary Schools in Nyandarua County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-09) Karanja, Njoroge Michael.The adoption of school based teacher recruitment (SBTR) policy in education in Kenya has empowered school boards to employ teachers in public secondary schools. The demand-driven teacher recruitment program which was initiated in 2001 brought to an end the supply-driven approach which had been in place since 1967. However, The SBTR policy has faced many challenges. Some of the often cited challenges include, the tendency to favour some schools thereby understaffing others and turnover of SBTR policy teacher beneficiaries. Therefore there is a need to investigate the effectiveness of the school based teacher recruitment policy as perceived by principals because they (principals) are the key implementers of the policy in their respective schools. The study adopted expostfacto research design. Using stratified random sampling the researcher sampled 80 principals out of the target population of 103 principals. The validity of the instrument was assessed by experts in the Department of Curriculum and Education management at Laikipia University to evaluate the relevance of each item in the instrument to the objectives targeted by the study. Reliability was tested by subjecting the instrument to a pilot study involving 3 schools purposively selected in Laikipia County from each of schools. The instruments’ reliability coefficient as established using cronbach’s alpha was .89. Using a selfdelivered questionnaire, data were collected from 80 principals in public secondary schools in Nyandarua County, Kenya. Nominal data was analysed through percentages and frequencies while hypotheses were tested using t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at .05 alpha level. Qualitative data was analysed for content as themes and sub-themes emerged.The study found that SBTR policy is not generating the expected impact in high STR schools, rural schools, smaller and large schools. The policy was generating the expected impact in schools that had high levels of community support.The study revealed that the recruitment practice was fairly efficient. The study recommended thatthepolicy be reviewed from time to time to enable it to address the emerging issues. The findings of this study generated information that may improve school basedItem An Investigation on Effects Of Change Management Strategies on Performance in The Kenyan Judiciary: A Case Of Nyahururu Law Courts(Laikipia University, 2014-09) Mong’are, Bitutu Alice (Miencha)The Kenyan Judiciary’s chief mission is to resolve disputes in a just manner with a view to protecting the rights and liberties of Kenyans. To effectuate the above mission, the Judiciary has in the recent past through commissions, task forces and strategic plans introduced several strategies of change management. However, the strategies in place as seen in the Ouko Commission’s Report have not fully addressed the concerns of consumers of justice as the Judiciary’s performance is still wanting. The study was designed to investigate the effects of change management strategies on performance in the Kenyan Judiciary. It aimed at establishing how employing business process re-engineering impacted on performance in Judiciary; to establish how allowing stakeholders control as a strategy of change management impacts on performance of the judiciary and finding out how making use of Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanism as a strategy of change has influenced performance in Kenyan Judiciary. The study was based on three theories: Contingency, Institutional and Agency theories. The study was a survey design and used questionnaires and key informant interview to gather primary data. Target population was 98 staff and Court User’s Committee members of the Nyahururu Law Courts. Using Cochran’s formula a stratified sample of 54 members was studied. Secondary data was collected from the court documents. A pilot test was carried out to establish the reliability and validity of the questionnaires. Data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics with aid of statistical package for social sciences computer software tool. Quantitative data was presented using charts, graphs while qualitative data was presented using narratives. Multiple regression and correlation analysis methods were used to draw inferences. Correlation analysis showed that Business Process Engineering had the highest R value at 0.562, followed by stakeholders control with an R value of 0.406 and the most weak was Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) with a R value of 0.404. This showed Business Process Engineering had strongest relationship to the improved performance of judiciary, followed by stakeholders control and the last was ADR. The study recommends further research into Challenges facing Staffs’ contribution to Reforms Process in the Judiciary, impediments to effective Judicial Reforms in the Magistrates courts and the effect of public vetting of judges on reforms in the country. The study would benefit the judiciary staff in that after introduction of BPR they could be empowered and collaboration among them improved resulting in performance.Item The Effect of Implementation of Selected Government Education Policies on Girls’ Participation In Primary School Education In Samburu Central Sub-County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-09) Kanjogu, Magdalene WanjiruDespite the fact that primary education in Kenya is free, Samburu Central Sub-County experiences low enrolment and high rate of dropout among girls. This renders the status of girls‟ participation, especially in primary schools, very low. Children in Samburu Central Sub-County and especially girls do not fully participate in primary school education. This has occurred in the face of numerous past and present initiatives in terms of implementation of Government education policies to ensure that all children in Kenya access primary school education. This study, therefore sought to investigate the extent to which selected implemented government education policies have impacted on girls‟ participation in primary school education in Samburu Central Sub-County. The study used survey research design. This study was based on the muted group, the social learning and perennialism theories. The study targeted 70 primary school headteachers and 515 assistant teachers in Samburu Central Sub-County. Data were collected from a sample of 21 head teachers and 155 teachers using a self-delivered questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency counts, means and percentages. This was accomplished through Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) computer programme version 11.5 for windows. The study revealed that girls drop out rate was higher than that of boys between 2003 and 2011. The same scenario was observed with regard to completion rates by pupils‟ gender. It also emerged that policy initiatives that had the higher impact on girls participation rate were the free primary education programme and school feeding programme. Additionally, the major risk factors in regard to girls‟ participation and completion rates were teenage pregnancy, forced marriages, female genital mutilation (FGM) and household poverty. The study recommends that to enhance girls participation rate in primary schools in the study area, there is a need to increase the number of low-cost primary schools in addition to stamping out negative cultural practices specifically FGM and early marriages. The study further recommends a replication of the current investigation in other arid and semi-arid regions with a view to determining whether similar findings will be generated. The study may assist the government and stakeholders in Samburu Central Sub-County to identify ways in which girls‟ participation in primary education can be enhanced in the county.Item Influence of Personal And School Characteristics on Principals’ Inclusiveness in Planning School Activities as Perceived by Teachers in Public Secondary Schools, Lari Subcounty, Kenya.(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Gitiche,Wamucii DorcasParticipation of teachers in the day to day running of a school is a very important aspect. However it has been observed that in many Kenyan schools, administrators have isolated teachers in making decisions that relate to daily school activities.The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of selected personal and school factors on principals’ inclusiveness in planning school activities as perceived by teachers in public secondary schools in Lari Sub-county. The study employed ex post factoresearch design. Data was collected by use of questionnaires that were administered to 169 teachers and 30 principals. Stratified, simple and proportionate random sampling designs were used to select respondents. The research instruments were pilot tested for validity and reliability before being used in the study. The instruments reliability index was computed using Pearson correlation. A reliability coefficient of 0.92 which was computed was acceptable. Statistical techniques specificallyt-test and the one way Analysis of Anova(ANOVA) were used to test the four hypothesis which were germane to the study at .05 level of significance. This was accomplished with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme version 19.0. Experienced principals, the study revealed were more inclusive than their less experienced counterparts and that the difference in inclusiveness level was significant (P < .05). However, no significant difference in inclusiveness level was revealed with regard to principals gender (P> .05) and school category a principal was heading (P > .05). Findings from this study will go a long way in making principals appreciate the need to bring teachers on board when planning school activities. Furthermore, findings emanating from this study may benefit Kenya Education Management Institute (KEMI) and the Teachers Service Commission with regard to the salient training needs to be addressed during principals’ workshop/seminars.Item Effects of Implementing The Balanced Scorecard System on Service Provision by Kenya Wildlife Service: A Case Of Central Rift Conservation Area(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Nelly, PalmerisThe Kenyan public business sectors are facing massive challenges to survive in today's globally volatile marketplace. In an attempt to overcome these challenges, companies are adopting newer management systems to clarify their vision and strategy and translate them into action. One of these public sectors, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), adopted the balanced scorecard (BSC) in 2009 to improve its service provision level. Since the adoption and implementation of the BSC, little is known about how effective it has been in enhancing service provision in the KWS field operational areas, since KWS is still facing serious problems of poaching, human wildlife conflicts etc. This study therefore sought to understand the effects of implementing Balance Scorecard on service provision by the KWS since its adoption. The objectives of this study were to determine the degree to which BSC has been integrated and assess the achievements derived from implementing BSC in the strategic management effort in Central Rift Conservation Area. The descriptive research design was used for this study; a sample size of 157 respondents from a target population of 267 employees in the study area was sampled using simple random sampling technique. The questionnaires filled and returned were 111 and these were used in the data analysis. Data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. A multiple regression model was fitted. The study found out that the three perspectives of BSC (Financial, Business Processes and Learning and Growth) have strong, positive and significant effect on the service provision at KWS. Further, the majority respondents claimed that they were not aware of the application of BSC in the daily running of the business operations and processes. The study therefore recommends that the management should organize staff training on the application of Balanced Scorecard system in KWS business operations. Key words Balanced Scorecard, Implementation, Service ProvisionItem Analysis of Constraints Faced by Small Medium Enterprises in Using Crowdfunding as A Source of Start-Up Capital In Nakuru County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Odhiambo, Edwin O.Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya face difficulty in accessing formal financing. This therefore means that there is a capital gap existing in Kenya which particularly affects the limited opportunities for establishment and development of new business ventures. The concept of crowdfunding could be a solution to this capital gap. This study sought to analyze the constraints faced by Kenyan SMEs in using crowdfunding as a source of start-up capital. The study was based on three theories, the agency theory, the stakeholder theory and the static trade-off theory. The study adopted a descriptive survey design because the objective of the study was systematic description of facts surrounding the use of crowdfunding. It targeted Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of crowdfunding platforms and entrepreneurs who had used crowdfunding to finance their business ventures. Self-administered structured questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 125 entrepreneurs operating small businesses within Nakuru County. Stratified proportionate sampling coupled with simple random sampling and snowball sampling were applied in selecting the respondents. Once the data had been collected it was processed, coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software tool. The results were presented using frequency tables, graphs and percentages. The research findings indicated that, a good percentage of SMEs have embraced crowdfunding with 49% of them having secured funds through this system. These SMEs highlighted risk of idea stealing, desire by financial supporters to gain control in the venture, lack of intellectual property rights and legal issues to be the major constraints that would stop them from tapping into the crowdfunding. The conclusion drawn from the study was that the constraints surrounding crowdfunding affect to a larger extent its use as a source of financing. The study also indicated that as much as SMEs are using crowdfunding, they still prefer the use of the traditional sources like banks. Based on the results of the study and the conclusions, the following key recommendations were made: Crowdfunding is a very good alternative to traditional fundraising. In order to be successful, the campaign has to be carefully designed upfront and executed with a lot of dedication. Credibility of projects generally increases when there is a team of multiple project initiators. It is important that they publish updates during the fundraising period in order to sustain this credibility. Crowdfunding platforms should facilitate and guide project initiators in such a way that they can easily optimize the success drivers. Crowdfunding platforms should facilitate and guide project initiators in such a way that they can easily optimize the success drivers.Item Effects of Information and Communication Technology Investments on Sustainable Competitive Advantage. A Case of Kenyan Commercial Banks in Nyahururu Town(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Odhiambo, Irene A.The link between Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Sustainable Competitive Advantage (SCA) has continued to take a central place in strategy research and scholarly debates. The perspectives through which ICT has been studied in organizational settings has appeared to strongly emphasize it as a powerful competitive weapon for sustainable competitive advantage, yet the extent to which the different aspects of ICT have contributed to the sustainability of that advantage has not been established. The study aimed at examining the effect of ICT investments on SCA of Kenyan commercial banks. The specific objectives were to determine the extent to which ICT assets have contributed to SCA of the banks; the extent to which ICT capabilities have contributed to SCA of the same banks; and also the extent to which the banks have invested in ICT. The study was based on the resource-based theory that seeks to direct organizations along the path to achieving sustainable competitive advantage through the use of resources and capabilities. Descriptive research design was adopted. The population of study was 94,102 customers from which a sample of 666 customers were selected. Systematic random sampling techniques was used in collection of data. Customers who filled the questionnaires and returned were 392. The data was then analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software tool. The results were presented using both graphical and summary measures in form of frequency tables, charts and graphs. Multiple regression analysis was used to draw inferences. The study found out that all the banks have invested in ICT infrastructure to a large extent and both ICT assets and ICT capabilities have a significant effect on sustainable competitive advantage. Each of these has a positive correlation with the sustainable competitive advantage. However, ICT capabilities has a stronger association with sustainable competitive advantage than ICT assets. The researcher recommends that all the banks come up with ICT strategic plans to address all the aspect of ICT investments. In addition, the study recommends that implementation and monitoring of the ICT strategic plans be ensured to enhance evaluation and justification of ICT investments made by banks.Item Influence Of Counselling Services On Emotional Stability Of Adolescent Orphans In Public Secondary Schools Of Upper Nyakach Division, Kisumu County, Kenya.(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Were, Tom C. M.Following the ban of corporal punishment in Kenyan schools and the enactment of the Children’s Act Cap 586, the Ministry of Education has been emphasizing the use of guidance and counselling as a way of addressing the needs of children in schools. Even though some progress has been made towards this end, many adolescent orphans learning in public secondary schools in Upper Nyakach Division continue to exhibit behavioural problems that manifest emotional difficulties. It is therefore imperative that lot more needs to be done in the public secondary schools in order to tackle the emotional challenges of adolescent orphans. During this crucial developmental stage, orphans may find it difficult to cope with the life stresses, loss of their parents as well as their studies, thus exhibiting emotional problems. The research was carried out to determine the influence of counselling services on emotional stability of adolescent orphans in public secondary schools of Upper Nyakach Division in Kisumu County, Kenya. Moreover, the study also investigated the effects of co-variates such as age and gender of the adolescent orphans on their emotional stability. To achieve this aim, the study adopted ex-post facto research design since the schools already had established guidance and counselling departments which carried out the service. A total population of 2875 adolescent orphans from 22 public secondary schools whose data was available at the Divisional Education Office in Upper Nyakach division was targeted. A sample of 338 orphans worked out using the sampling formula given by Kathuri and Pals was studied. Data was collected using questionnaires from the sample population. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data collected using R-Script and SPSS version 22.0 computer programmes. Report findings were based on respective p-values. The study revealed that there was a positive correlation between counselling services and emotional stability among adolescent orphans in public secondary schools in Upper Nyakach Division. It also revealed that there was no statistically significant gender and age difference in emotional stability among the adolescent orphans. The study concluded that adolescent orphans benefited from counselling services offered in public secondary schools with most of them indicating that they were more emotionally stable after going through counselling. The study therefore recommended that the Teachers Service Commission should appoint teachers with expertise in guidance and counselling to provide the services in public secondary schools and that the adolescent orphans should be encouraged to seek the counselling services.Item Effects of Result Based Management on Performance of Nyahururu Sub County in County Government if Laikipia(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Mungai, Kihanda JohnResults Based Management (RBM) was introduced in 2004 out of the need to improve service delivery and demonstrate reform gains from the implementation of the Economic Recovery Strategy. The RBM tools introduced included Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), Performance Contract (PC), Service Charter (SC) and Automation through Local Authorities Integrated Financial Operations Management System (LAIFOMS) among others. These approaches were implemented with the aim of improving service delivery in the local authorities which have been replaced by County Government. However, there is still outcry from the citizens that the services offered are no of good quality. This has been reinforced by reports from Transparency International and Auditor General Office of high corruption in County Governments. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of result based management on performance of County Governments in Kenya; the specific objectives of this research were therefore to investigate the effects of Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), Service Charter and Performance Contract on the service delivery as well as the effects of LAIFOMS on financial management at the Nyahururu Sub County. The research was based on Public Value and Strategic Triangle Theories. The population of the study was 4,891 respondents comprising of 4,751 customers and 140 staff. A sample of 42 staff and 355 customers were selected using stratified random sampling. 292 respondents comprising of 37 staff and 255 customers filled and returned the questionnaires. Data was analyzed using multiple regression and correlation analysis. The p values for each independents variable was less than 0.05 for both regression and multiple regression analysis. The study found out that, Service Charter, Performance Contract, RRI and ICT had significant effects on performance of County Governments. The study therefore recommends that staff should be trained more on these tools as well as encourages them to implement them. In addition their implementation should be monitored. Awareness should also be created to customers about the service charter to understand their rights and obligation.Item Assessment of The Contribution of Selected Government Strategies Towards Youth Self-Employment: Case of Youth Groups in Naivasha Sub-County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Kimani, Nganga Amos.In Kenya, the economic growth rate has not been sufficient to create enough employment opportunities to absorb the ever increasing labour force of about five hundred thousand (500,000) people annually. About seventy five percent (75%) of youth are unemployed. The Human Capital theory asserts that more education brings more earnings or better employment. Yet youth unemployment has been growing despite the government spending more than three hundred billion shillings annually on employment creation initiatives. Empirical studies of government employment initiatives with a focus on youth groups’ selfemployment in Naivasha Sub-County have not been done. This study intended to assess selected Kenyan government strategies towards youth self employment in Naivasha Sub- County. The objectives of this study included; to examine the influence of school curriculum on self employment initiatives among the youth in Naivasha Sub-County, determine the influence of vocational training on self employment initiatives among the youth and determine the influence of youth funds availability on self employment initiatives among the youth . The study used a descriptive research involving survey method. The study used both primary data and secondary. The study population consisted of all the one hundred licensed youth groups with businesses in Naivasha Sub-County, Nakuru County. Stratified sampling technique was used to determine the sample size while simple random sampling was used to select the sample from the stratified data. Based on the population size, a sample size of eighty groups was selected by using the Sample size table. Data was collected using questionnaires. A pilot study was done to ensure reliability and validity of research instruments. The data was analysed using regression. The results were presented in graphs, charts, tables and figures. The P value for school curriculum variable was 0.065, the P value for vocational training variable was 0.055, the P value for youth enterprise funds variable was 0.054, therefore the selected variable have significant influence on self employment initiatives. The study concluded that selected government strategies to enhance selfemployment have to a large extent contributed towards self employment initiatives. This study will assist the government to come with new strategies to alleviate youth unemployment problem and form a basis of future research on other government strategies to alleviate youth unemployment.Item Uchanganuzi Hakiki Wa Mtindo Na Maudhui Katika Nyimbo Za Kisiasa: Mfano Wa Wasanii Kutoka Kaunti Ya Murang’a(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Munyao, Josephine Kanini.Nyimbo kama zilivyo tanzu zingine za fasihi simulizi huhusisha matumizi ya mitindo changamano katika kuwasilisha ujumbe wa kisiasa. Utafiti huu ulidhamiria kufanya uchanganuzi wa mitindo ya nyimbo za kisiasa zilizoimbwa na wasanii watatu kutoka Kaunti ya Murang’a: Joseph Kamaru, Kamande wa Kioi na John De’Mathew. Ulilenga kutambulisha, kuainisha na kuchanganua vipengele vya kimtindo vinavyotumiwa na wanamuziki hao na athari zake kwa wakaazi wa Kaunti ya Murang’a. Pia, dhima inayotekelezwa na nyimbo za kisiasa katika kaunti hii ilichunguzwa. Utafiti umelenga kuonyesha iwapo kuna aina mahususi ya mitindo inayotumiwa na wanamuziki hawa. Aidha, utafiti huu umejikita katika kuweka wazi iwapo nyimbo hizi huathiri maamuzi ya wanajamii wa Kaunti hii. Utafiti huu umeegemea kwenye mihimili ya nadharia mbili: nadharia ya uhalisia na ya mtindo. Uteuzi wa sampuli ulikuwa wa kimaksudi. Data ya utafiti huu ilikusanywa kwa kusikiliza kanda za nyimbo za wasanii hawa na kuziainisha katika makundi mawili: za kisiasa na zisizo za kisiasa. Mtafiti ameteua sampuli ya kimaksudi ya nyimbo kumi na tano (15) za kisiasa- nyimbo tano (5) kutoka kila msanii kwa lengo la kuchanganua vipengele vya kimtindo katika kila wimbo wa kisiasa. Wawakilishi Kaunti kumi na sita (16) kutoka kaunti hii waliteuliwa kimaksudi na kuhojiwa ili kupata maoni yao kuhusu maudhui katika nyimbo za kisiasa za wasanii Joseph Kamaru, Kamande wa Kioi na John De’Mathew na athari yake kwa hadhira. Mahojiano hayo yaliongozwa na ratiba ya mahojiano. Mtafiti alinasa kauli zao kwa tepurekoda na kuzitumia zikiwa data ya utafiti huu. Maoni yao yalichanganuliwa ili kubainisha athari za nyimbo za kisiasa za wasanii husika kwa wakaazi wa kaunti ya Murang’a. Uchanganuzi wa data umefanywa kwa njia ya kithamano elezi. Matokeo ya utafiti huu yamedhihirisha kwamba wasanii Joseph Kamaru na John De’Mathew hutumia jazanda, methali, taswira, uhuishi na hurafa katika nyimbo zao za kisiasa katika kuwasilisha ujumbe wa kisiasa. Utafiti huu umebainisha kuwa mitindo hiyo hutumiwa na wasanii kuwapigia upatu wanasiasa, kuihamasisha, kuizindua na kuchochea hadhira yao katika kufanya maamuzi ya kisiasa. Matokeo utafiti huu yatakuwa na manufaa kwa wasomi wa Fasihi Simulizi kuhusiana na dhima ya fasihi katika jamii na vile vile kuhusiana na taaluma ya Elimu – Mtindo.Item An Analysis of The Strategic Factors That Impede Growth Of Institutions of Higher Learning in Nyahururu Sub-County, Laikipia County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Ndungu, Musoma Johninstitutions of higher learning help to serve as a model environment for the practice of good governance, conflict resolution and respect for human rights and thus enabling economic growth of any nation, any county or any region. This is the reason as to why their presence and growth is of importance for any economic growth to be realized. However, in Nyahururu Sub County such Institutions begin but most never grow, other portray negative growth rate and other are extinct. This trend has not been explained. This research therefore sought to analyze the strategic factors that impede the growth of these Institutions in Nyahururu Sub County. The specific objectives included determination whether Product differentiation, competition and marketing strategy impede growth of these institutions of higher learning in Nyahururu Sub County. This research was based on “Institutional Theory” which considers the processes by which structures, including schemas, rules, norms and routines. The Institutional theorists assert that the institutional environment can strongly influence the development and growth of formal structures in an organization. The study design was survey method where the entire target population was sampled. The Target population was 76, who included Senior Management and Administrative Staff of Six Institutions of Higher learning in Nyahururu Sub County registered by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and offering diplomas and above. A census was the applied to all the 76 respondents. The researcher used both the primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected using questionnaires while secondary data was obtained from Institutions annual reports, documents analysis and Institutions Magazines. Data analysis was done using Multiple regression analysis methods for inference which was used to analysis the relationship that exists between the variables. The study revealed institutions were able to use product differentiation comfortably in all areas under study while competition was found to be the highest impeding factor. The study recommends further study on a comparative survey of factors that influence learners‟ choice of different institution of higher learning institutions: a research into alternative courses in different institutions and their role on competition and growth of institutions and the role of alternate markets on growth of institutions of higher learning. Institutions Management could benefit from the finding more especially in informed strategic decisions for Institutional growth. The finding would also be of great help to scholars and scientific researchers interested on the subject under study.Item An Analysis of The Strategic Factors That Impede Growth Of Institutions of Higher Learning in Nyahururu Sub-County, Laikipia County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Ndungu, Musoma JohnItem Factors Affecting Provision of Quality Service in Nyahururu Referral Hospital(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Musyoka, Shedrack Thyaka.In healthcare industry service quality has become an imperative in providing patient satisfaction because delivering service directly affects the patient’s satisfaction. By the start of the millennium, the quality of service in public hospitals in Kenya declined. Therefore this research study sought to investigate factors affecting provision of quality service in public health sector in Kenya with specific reference to Nyahururu Referral Hospital. The study used a descriptive survey approach in collecting data. Thereafter the study used stratified random sampling to get the target population of 129 respondents. The primary data was collected using self-administered questionnaires. The data was then analyzed using descriptive approach such as frequency, percentages, means and standard deviations. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. From the findings the study revealed that organizations must enhance employee’s capacity in order to improve provision of service quality. The study established that employee’s incompetence affected service quality, and that high skilled personnel in the public health sectors influence high service quality provision. Further, the study found that management in public health sector need to improve the level of adoption and willingness to invest and advance in modern technology as this would facilitate service assessment. Lack of investment in technology development affected health service quality. The study concluded that public health sector should improve the level of adoption of technology in order to facilitate service assessment, improve process and communication which are essential for effective and efficient quality service in public health sector in Kenya. The study also concluded that management should emphasize on effective communication channels in order to provide information to upper level managers about activities and performances throughout the organization as well as improving individual participation in provision of quality service .The study recommended that management in public health sector should improve employee’s capacity to enhance provision of health service quality. Adequate number of highly skilled and experienced employees, effective recruitment, monitoring of doctors and staff and meeting performance and practice standards enhances service quality provision.Item Influence of Selected Social Factors on Students’ Attitude Towards Chemistry In Nyamaiya Division, Nyamira County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2014-10) Mokoro, Jonah MokoroChemistry has been identified as one of the important subjects needed for the sustenance and transformation of the national economy, and hence should be accorded adequate attention. Advancement in science and technology has created a greater demand for more people to study chemistry and this is particularly important in the realisation of Kenya‘s vision to become industrialised. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to investigate the effects of selected social factors influencing the students‘ attitude towards Chemistry at the secondary school level of education, and propose recommendations to remedy the situation. Guided by specific research objectives, the study targeted the effects of the teacher‘s characteristics, parental influence, student‘s career interest and peer influence on the students‘ attitude towards Chemistry in Nyamaiya Division, Nyamira County, Kenya. The study adopted an ex-post facto research design and the target population was all secondary school students in Nyamaiya Division. The sample size was determined from Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table for determining sample size from a given population, where the target population of 2890 students gave a sample size of 341 students. Simple random sampling was used to select 341 respondents from the secondary school students in Nyamaiya Division. Student questionnaires were used to collect data from the respondents. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Descriptive statistics involved the use of percentages and means. The main inferential technique used was the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The hypotheses were tested at α = 0.05 significance level. Quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. The study revealed that the students‘ attitude towards Chemistry was significantly influenced by the teacher‘s characteristics and parental influence. The Ministry of Education should therefore develop in-service programmes and refresher courses for teachers that emphasize the need to adopt creative and motivating methods of teaching and the importance of being available to the students. There is also need for the Ministry of Education to create forums for parental education on the importance of providing an enabling home environment to the students so as to boost students‘ attitudes towards chemistry.Item Mshikamano Na Muwala Katika Diskosi Za Wanawingi-Lugha: Hali Katika Vyuo Vikuu Nchini Kenya(Laikipia University, 2015) Salim-Sawe, K.Cohesion and coherence are linguistic elements which are relevant in discourse unity and in the interpretation of meaning. However, some researchers have labelled codeswitched conversations as disjointed and incoherent pieces, which do not follow rules of grammar. As a result of their claims, it was not clear whether multilinguals use some strategies to bring about cohesion and coherence in their codeswitched discourses. Founded on this background, this research sought: to study the cohesion and coherence strategies used by multilinguals in generating unified codeswitched utterances, to establish the cohesion and coherence rules which govern generation of codeswitched discourse and to analyze the linguistic and non-linguistic features which determine coherence in multilingual discourses. This study was guided by two theories: Tanskanen’s Cohesion theory which is based on repetion and collocation was applied in the study of cohesion strategies. Tabaoda and Mann’s Rhetoric Structure Theory which relies on the rhetorical relations existing between text spans as coherence strategies was used in the study of multilingual discourse coherence. Data was collected from a sample of two universities, namely: Moi University and University of Kabianga. One campus was purposively selected from each of these two universities and these were Kericho Campus of Moi University and the Main Campus of University of Kabianga. The two campuses were purposively sampled out because most of the students, from Bomet and Kericho counties where most of the native speakers of Kipsigis live, had joined them through the Privately Sponsored Students Pragramme, thus it was easier to access the target population. Snow balling technique was applied in choosing nine discourses from university students and six from university staff in each of the sampled university campuses. This means that, from the two campuses, a total of thirty discourses were studied. Data analysis was guided by the two research theories as per the research objectives. This study found that multilinguals apply distinct strategies in building discourse coherence and cohesion in their codeswitched conversations. The findings of this study are valueable to those who are interested in understanding coherence, cohesion and structural analysis of discourse. The study findings of this research have also been used as the basis for advancing a new multifaceted theory which is relevant in the description of cohesion, coherence and other linguistic elements.Item Influence of Fees Subsidy And Supplementary Services on Access, Retention And Completion Rates of Secondary Education Among Students In Marigat Sub-County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2015-04) Chepsat, Samuel T.Item The Influence of Selected School Characteristics on Principals' Perception on The Role of Non Governmental Organisations In Enhancing Access To Secondary Education In Laikipia County, Kenya(Laikipia University, 2015-10) Waiganjo, P. GikonyoKenya’s 2010 constitution provides that every child has a right to free and compulsory basic education. In view of the fact that secondary education is a critical sector of basic education in Kenya, the Government introduced Free Secondary Education (FSE) in January 2008. While access to state schooling improved with the introduction of FSE, some disadvantaged children, especially girls, street children, children from pastoralist communities, those with disabilities, orphans and other vulnerable children, continue to be excluded from this learning opportunity. This has resulted in large regional and gender disparities and low Gross Enrolment Ratios (GERs) in the provision of secondary education in the country. To arrest this situation, the government has continuously encouraged non-governmental organizations to come on board in regard to provision of secondary education in the country. However the extent to which NGOs are playing their role expectation in enhancing secondary education in Laikipia County has not been documented. This is what informed the study. The purpose of this study, therefore was to explore principals’ perception on the role of NGOs in enhancing access to secondary education in Laikipia county Kenya and the extent to which these perceptions could be influenced by selected school characteristics. Using ex-post facto research design, data was collected from a sample of 63 principals in the county. The principals were selected through simple random sampling technique from a total population of 75 public secondary schools principals in the county. Data was collected through a selfdelivered questionnaire whose validation was done by two experts (supervisors) in the department of Curriculum and Educational Management, Laikipia University. Using Cronbach’s alpha, the instruments reliability stood at .940. Collected data was analysed through frequency counts and percentages with respect to nominal scale data while hypotheses were tested using ANOVA and the t - test statistics at .05 level of significance with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme version 20.0. The study established that NGOs in Laikipia County were concentrating their efforts towards students’ empowerment and lowering of financial burden of secondary education to parents. NGOs also appeared to be paying more attention to boarding schools, county schools and schools located in urban areas. The study recommends that NGOs should pay more attention to capacity building in schools. The study further recommends that NGOs should pay increased attention to day schools and district schools to benefit the local communityItem Changamoto Za Vijana Katika Riwaya Teule Za Ken Walibora(Laikipia University, 2015-10) Ogutu, Onyango HarrisonThe question of challenges encountered by the youths in any society is very critical. It is estimated that the youths represent a big percentage of the population in the society and therefore they cannot be ignored, Kenyan Constitution (2010). Nevertheless, the youths are faced with numerous challenges in their daily lives. Although many scholars have written much on Walibora‟s literary works, not much has been done on the challenges facing the youths as characters in his novels. This research therefore dealt with how the author exposed the challenges facing the youth characters as well as the impact of those challenges on the lives of the youth and the society. The researcher critically analysed how various language devices were used by the writer to expose those challenges as depicted in Kufa Kuzikana, Ndoto ya Almasi and Kidagaa Kimemwozea.This research was guided by the theory of realism whose function is to portray the truth as it is. Realism theory deals with real and true presentation of issues in literary works. A realist believes that any literary work should place the members of the society in their ordinary environment. Two pillars of realism theory were applied in this research, that is; the pillar that emphasizes on direct imitation of the reality in the surrounding environment and secondly, the pillar that examines how language devices are used to portray realism in character and theme exposition. Research design in this research was purely descriptive. Youth characters and the challenges encountered by this group in Walibora‟s novels was the target population. The main place of research was the selected novels which were read intensively and extensively and data collected in written form. The methodology used in data collection was perusal and content analysis. A descriptive qualitative analysis was used in analyzing data based on research objectives. The selection of the study novels was done purposively on the basis of the fact that they were likely to be embedded with current themes on challenges facing the youth since majority of the characters were youths.. It was hoped that the outcome of this research will be a reference point by the critiques, scholars and researchers of literary works, language and linguistics and also help create awareness in the society on the challenges faced by the youths. The challenges exposed included tribalism, oppression, poverty, corruption and drug abuse. Those challenges had effects such as: school drop-out, early-unwanted pregnancies, death and injuries. The researcher recommended inclusivity of real challenges faced by the youths and the subsequent solutions to such challenges in the education system so as to enlighten both the adults and the young on this challenges.Item Tathmini Ya Uyakinifu Wa Sifa Tabia Za Wahusika Katika Riwaya Teule Za Ken Walibora(Laikipia University, 2015-10) Nyachoi Ombeng’i EvansKen Walibora amewaumba wahusika wa kiutopia katika riwaya zake. Utafiti huu ulikusudia kubainisha ikiwa wahusika katika riwaya za Walibora wanawakilisha uhalisia wa jamii. Lengo kuu katika utafiti lilikuwa kubainisha upekee wa baadhi ya wahusika katika riwaya teule za Ken Walibora. Utafiti uliongozwa na madhumuni matatu. Kwanza utafiti ulidhamiria kudadavua uhalisia wa baadhi ya wahusika katika riwaya teule za Ken Walibora. Maudhui ya pili yalikuwa kupambanua mbinu za utunzi zilizohusika katika kuwajenga wahusika wa kipekee, na ya mwisho kufafanua jinsi maudhui anuwai yalivyojenga sifa tabia za wahusika. Sababu kuu ya kuchagua mada hii ni kuwa, baadhi ya watunzi wa riwaya za Kiswahili huumba wahusika kwa njia ya kipekee na kuwafanya waonekane viumbe wasio wa kawaida. Utafiti huu ulitathmini ikiwa wahusika hao huakisi hali halisi katika jamii. Utafiti huu ulikuwa wa maktabani. Nilifanya uteuzi wa sampuli kimaksudi na kusoma riwaya teule za Walibora kwa upekuzi na kunakili data iliyokusudiwa. Data iliyohusiana na utafiti huu kutoka makala mbalimbali ilikusanywa kutoka maktaba ya vyuo na intaneti na kutumika katika uchanganuzi wa data kwa mbinu ya kimaelezo. Utafiti huu uliongozwa na nadharia za mwitikio wa msomaji iliyoasisiwa na Stanley Fish, James Tompkins, Robert Jauss, Rosenblatt na Wolfgang. Matokeo ya utafiti huu yalibainisha kuwa Walibora amewasawiri wahusika wakiwa viumbe wasio wa kawaida na kwa njia ya kipekee kuakisi hali halisi ya jamii. Matokea ya utafiti huu yatakuwa ya muhimu katika kuwaelewesha wasomaji namna wahusika huumbwa na kutumiwa na waandishi kupitishia ujumbe, kwa njia ya kipekee. Matokea ya utafiti huu yatakuwa ya manufaa kwa wasomi wa fasihi ya Kiswahili hasa utanzu wa riwaya. Pia yatakuwa daraja kwa wale watakaofanya utafiti kama huu baadaye.