School of Education

ENERGY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF AN OPTIMIZED WOOD-FIRED BOILER IN A TEA PROCESSING FACTORY IN KERICHO, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ENERGY MANAGEMENT PLAN OF AN OPTIMIZED WOOD-FIRED BOILER IN A TEA PROCESSING FACTORY IN KERICHO, KENYA KAMUNGE, IMOSES Energy resources are generally constrained and costly, resulting in a gap between the rising demand for energy and the available supply. Tea factories are no exception, as many rely on boiler as a source of energy for their operations. The high cost of fuel has led these factories to adopt challenging solutions, such as using wood as a combustion source for boilers. Given that wood is an expensive source of fuel, implementing effective energy management strategies is crucial to ensuring sustainable productivity. This research aimed to optimize boiler energy usage and develop an energy management plan (EMP) to enhance boiler efficiency and minimize gas emissions. The study was grounded in three theories: the Theory of Moisture Sorption, the Phlogiston Theory, and the Lavoisier Theory. The researcher applied the research onion framework, focusing on factors such as air- fuel ratio, the boiler’s surface heat loss, the fuel's moisture content, and boiler flue gas losses. A fuzzy logic controller was designed to optimize the combustion process of the boiler. Simulations revealed that the fuzzy logic controller significantly improved the AF ratio, boosting efficiency from 78% to 81% during combustion. The optimized parameters enabled the creation of an energy management plan (EMP), which was validated using a continuous-time dynamic model. Validation results indicated an initial linear temperature increase, suggesting enhanced heat transfer and accelerated heat absorption by water. Near the boiling point of water (373.15 K or 100°C under standard atmospheric pressure), the graph plateaued, as additional heat contributed primarily to the phase change from water to steam. Applying the developed EMP in industrial settings would improve boiler combustion efficiency, enhance productivity, and reduce emissions, thereby mitigating environmental pollution.

EFFECT OF DETERMINANTS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE IMPLEMENTATION ON INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT IN TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN NORTH RIFT REGION, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

EFFECT OF DETERMINANTS OF QUALITY ASSURANCE IMPLEMENTATION ON INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT IN TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN NORTH RIFT REGION, KENYA KALULU, FRANCIS The objective of quality assurance in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions is ensuring their training services effectively meet the demands of trainees, industry and society. Thus, TVET institutions have embarked on quality mission as an effort to uncover the best approaches for embedding quality assurance in their instructional management. In this regard, the study was designed to assess the effect of determinants of quality assurance implementation on instructionalmanagement in TVET institutions in North Rift Region, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to: determine the effect of technology on instructional management, assess the effect of trainer’s commitment on instructional management, analyze the effect of leadership on instructional management and find out the effect of resources on instructional management in TVET institutions in North Rift Region, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Deming's theory of quality management, cognitive learning theory and the systems theory. The study employed mixed method research design ingrained with positivist and interpretivist philosophy. The target population comprised of 470 trainers of mechanical engineering departments, electrical engineering departments, building departments, management representatives from ISO 9001: 2015 accredited TVET institutions in the North-Rift region. Multistage sampling technique was used to select the respondents. Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table was used to calculate the sample size of 214 respondents which was proportionally allocated to the TVET institutions using Neyman’s Allocation formula. The primary data was collected using closed-ended questionnaires and semi- structured interview schedule. Data was analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Regression, Correlation and ANOVA) while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The hypotheses were tested using multiple regression model using SPSS version 25. From the findings coefficient of determination (R square) of 0.784 indicated that the model explained only 78.4 % of the variation or change in instructional management of TVET institutions. Technology (t =2.212, P<.05), trainer’s commitment (t =3.3012, P<.05), leadership (t =2.227, P<.05) and resources is (t =6.254, P<.05). The study findings indicated that technology, trainers’ commitment, leadership and resources significantly affect instructional management of TVET institutions in North Rift Region, Kenya. Therefore, TVET institutions should consider strengthening and bundling technology, trainers’ commitment, leadership and resources using a policy framework to enhance their synergy in implementation of quality assurance. This will enhance positive and significant outcomes in terms of instructional management in engineering courses in public TVET institutions for the realization of sustainable development goals.

DETERMINANTS OF THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS AND THE INDUSTRY IN TRANS NZOIA COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

DETERMINANTS OF THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS AND THE INDUSTRY IN TRANS NZOIA COUNTY, KENYA CHEPKWONY, EZEKIEL The disconnect between Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and industry remains a significant challenge in Kenya, limiting the capacity of graduates to meet labor market expectations. In Trans Nzoia County, the gap in effective collaboration between TVET institutions and industries undermines efforts toward skills development, economic growth, and workforce alignment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the determinants of collaboration between TVET institutions and industries in the region. Specifically, the objectives were: to investigate the influence of institutional capacity on TVET–industry collaboration, to determine the influence of industry demand on TVET–industry collaboration; and to examine the influence of alignment of interests on TVET–industry collaboration. A mixed-methods research design was employed, grounded in the pragmatic research paradigm. The study targeted TVET trainers, principals, and industry representatives, comprising a total population of 394. A sample size of 178 respondents was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s formula and selected using proportionate sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires (for trainers) and semi-structured interviews (for principals and industry representatives). Instrument validity was ensured through expert review and pilot testing, while reliability was established using Cronbach’s Alpha, yielding coefficients above the 0.70 threshold. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Ethical considerations included informed consent, confidentiality, voluntary participation, and clearance from relevant bodies, including NACOSTI and the University of Eldoret Research Ethics Office. The findings revealed that institutional capacity is constrained by inadequate infrastructure, weak governance structures, and limited industry linkages, though staff competency and quality assurance systems were acknowledged. Industries’ demand was present but not matched by proactive collaboration or investment, and poor communication further inhibited coordination. Regarding alignment of interests, the study found that shared goals enhanced curriculum relevance, joint research, and internship success, though misalignment hindered deeper engagement. The study concluded that institutional limitations, passive industry involvement, and misaligned priorities weaken collaboration. The study therefore recommended there is a need of infrastructure improvement, proactive industry engagement, and structured alignment mechanisms through joint curriculum development, industry forums, and regulatory oversight. Government incentives could further stimulate sustained partnerships. The findings from the study will provide valuable data to policymakers, TVET administrators, and industry stakeholders on strategies to strengthen collaboration between TVET institutions and the industry for improved skills development and employability in Trans Nzoia County.

DETERMINANTS OF PRACTICAL SKILLS ACQUISITION IN VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTERS IN NAROK COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

DETERMINANTS OF PRACTICAL SKILLS ACQUISITION IN VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTERS IN NAROK COUNTY, KENYA NGENO, SAMMY This study investigated the determinants of practical skill acquisition in Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) in Narok County. The research was prompted by concerns over rising youth unemployment and the growing shortage of technical skills in Kenya. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), approximately 38.9% of young people are unemployed, partly due to limited access to vocational training. The lack of skilled labor in the construction, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors has slowed economic growth and low turnover. Additionally, inadequate vocational skills among the youth have contributed to financial dependency, unemployment, and increasing social challenges, including crime and substance abuse. The study assesses the availability and adequacy of training infrastructure—such as workshops, laboratories, and equipment—and their influence on enrollment. It also examines the impact of instructor qualifications and trainees’ perceptions of course relevance on participation in vocational programs. Additionally, financial barriers, particularly tuition costs, are analyzed to determine their effect on access to vocational education. This study was anchored in Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, Fitts and Posner’s Skill Acquisition Model, and Becker’s Human Capital Theory. It employs a descriptive research design to examine the subject matter. Data was gathered from a sample comprising nine Center Managers, 54 Heads of Departments (HODs), and 312 trainees from public Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) in Narok County. The research utilized questionnaires and interviews as data collection tools. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, with findings presented through percentages and frequency distributions. Findings reveal that inadequate facilities (72.72%), a shortage of qualified trainers (70.10%), and financial constraints (88.33%) significantly hinder vocational training. To address these challenges, the study recommends increased government investment in infrastructure, recruitment of qualified trainers, and expansion of financial aid programs. Strengthening industry partnerships would further enhance course relevance and improve employment prospects for graduates.

EFFECT OF INCREASED ENROLMENT ON QUALITY OF TRAINING IN PUBLIC TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

EFFECT OF INCREASED ENROLMENT ON QUALITY OF TRAINING IN PUBLIC TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA CHERUIYOT, IRINE Worldwide, countries both developed and developing, experience challenge in provision of quality education. In Kenya, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) enrolment has risen sharply following government incentives, raising concerns about the quality of training. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of increased enrolment on the quality of training in selected public TVET institutions in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The study was guided by four objectives to : a) determine the influence of increased trainees enrollment on collaboration between industries and TVET institutions on quality training; b) To evaluate the influence of teaching strategies being utilized amid increased enrolment on the quality of training in public TVET institutions c) determine how utilization of existing infrastructure under condition of increased enrolment affects quality of training in selected public TVET institutions and to evaluate the effect of trainers' performance, amid increased enrolment, on the quality of training in public TVET institutions. The human capital theory anchored the study. The research employed a mixed method design that was based on post-positivism paradigm. The study used a combination of sampling techniques including purposive and stratified sampling to select a study sample of 4 principals, 75 trainers and 1780 trainees for data collection. The study used interview guide for principals and questionnaire for trainers and trainees. Pilot study was conducted at The Kitale National Polytechnic to determine reliability and validity of the questionnaire. Test-retest technique was used to examine reliability. Data analysis for quantitative data was done by use of SPSS version 29 while for the qualitative data the researcher utilized thematic analysis. The researcher sought permission and followed the ethical considerations of research that is confidentiality, free from conflicts of interest, and fair to human subjects Response rates were 100% for principals,77.3% for trainers, and 82.6% for trainees. Findings indicated that a)62.1% of respondents acknowledged existing industry collaborations, though these were strained by increased enrolment and limited resources, b) 59.4% reported that large classes promoted teacher-centered methods, limiting hands- on skill acquisition)68.7% cited overcrowded workshops and laboratories as a major barrier to practical training. , d) 71.2% agreed that trainer workload increased reduced instructional quality and feedback timeliness d) Strategies such as class splitting (54.8%) and online learning (32.6%) were adopted but insufficient. The study concluded that increased enrolment has overstretched resources, weakened industry partnerships, overcrowded workshops and classrooms, and overburdened trainers, undermining training quality. It recommends strengthening industry linkages, increasing government capitation, expanding infrastructure, enhancing trainer capacity, and adopting sustainable delivery strategies to safeguard training quality amid rising enrolment.

INFLUENCE OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP ON DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRIAL SKILLS IN ENGINEERING TRAINING IN PUBLIC TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN NAIROBI COUNTY

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

INFLUENCE OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP ON DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRIAL SKILLS IN ENGINEERING TRAINING IN PUBLIC TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN NAIROBI COUNTY KOECH, ALBERT Dynamic trends in the engineering industry have continued to call for quality training to enhance the industrial skills of engineering graduates to meet the challenges of the 21st century industry. However, there is a growing skills gap which is a multi-faceted problem when highly skilled engineers are in short supply and high demand. This lauds the essence of public-private partnership in pooling resources, knowledge and experiences to build industrial skills amongst engineering trainees efficiently. Thus the study was guided by the following specific objectives; to determine the influence of partnering in engineering internships on industrial skills development in engineering training, to examine the influence of partnering in infrastructure development on industrial skills development in engineering training, to analyse the influence of partnering in capacity building of trainers on industrial skills development in engineering training in technical vocational education and training institutions in Nairobi County. This study was guided by Cognitive Learning Theory which was proposed by Jean Piaget in 1930. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was 334 HoDs, course tutors and electrical engineering trainers. The study used Slovin’s formula to calculate the sample size which is 182. The respondents were selected using a multistage sampling process. Data was collected by use of a questionnaire which was piloted for testing reliability and validity. Data was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 package and presented using tables. From the findings, the coefficient of determination (R square) of 0.318 indicated that the model explained only 31.8% of the variation or change in industrial skills development in engineering training. Engineering internship (t =2.867, P<.05), infrastructure (t =3.779, P<.05) and Capacity building (t =5.459, P<.05). The study findings indicate that the engineering internship, infrastructure, and Capacity building significantly influence industrial skills development in engineering training in technical vocational education and training institutions in Nairobi County. Therefore, TVET institutions should consider strengthening engineering internship, infrastructure, and Capacity building using a policy framework to enhance their potential industrial skills development in engineering training. The findings of the study are of significance to TVET and the stakeholders in improving the industrial skills development engineering trainees in TVET through public-private partnerships.

THE IMPACT OF THE 'SKILLING UGANDA’ PROGRAMME ON YOUTH EMPLOYMENT IN EASTERN UGANDA.

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

THE IMPACT OF THE 'SKILLING UGANDA’ PROGRAMME ON YOUTH EMPLOYMENT IN EASTERN UGANDA. KIPYEKO, KENNETH This study examined the impact of the ‘Skilling Uganda’ programme on youth employment in eastern Uganda. According to the 2021 National Labor Force Survey, youth unemployment stood at 16.5%, higher than 2020’s 13.3% and the national average of 9.2%. Youth unemployment has economic, social, and political consequences, prompting calls for empirical evaluation of interventions like the “Skilling Uganda” programme. Guided by Human Capital Theory and General Systems Theory, the study aimed to: (1) establish the employment status of programme graduates, (2) determine their employability, (3) identify employment-related challenges, and (4) explore institutional challenges in sustaining the programme. Using a mixed-methods design with a pragmatic paradigm, 208 respondents were sampled from a target of 500 through purposive, simple random, and stratified sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires and interviews, then analyzed using SPSS. Findings revealed that 14.4% of graduates were unemployed, and those employed among the respondents faced low or inconsistent earnings, indicating persistent underemployment. Significant skill gaps were noted in digital literacy (51.4%) and leadership (64.0%), with respondents attributing these skills to personal initiative rather than the training. Key employment challenges included low capital (76%), technological limitations (39.9%), lack of employability skills (27.9%), and weak social networks (27.9%). Institutional challenges included budget constraints, limited focus on employability skills in curricula, and weak industry linkages, particularly in securing partnerships with the private sector. The study concludes that while the programme has improved access to work, the quality and sustainability of employment remain limited by skill gaps, inadequate capital, weak industry linkages, and low technological proficiency. It recommends enhancing employability training, strengthening post-training support and financing, building stronger industry linkages, and expanding technological training.

CEFFECT OF MODULAR SYLLABUS IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ON PERFORMANCE OF TECHNICAL COURSES IN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

CEFFECT OF MODULAR SYLLABUS IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ON PERFORMANCE OF TECHNICAL COURSES IN TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION TRAINING IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA KIMEMIA, JOSEPH Quality education and training are essential for national progress, with Technical Education and Vocational Training institutions focusing on continuous improvement aligned with Sustainable Development Goals. However, rising unemployment and inadequate skills among Kenyan Technical Education and Vocational Training graduates, due to poor modular strategy implementation, threaten youth livelihoods. In this regard, the main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of modular syllabus implementation strategies on the performance of technical courses in Technical Vocational Education Training in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to: Determine the effect of modular partnership strategy on the performance of technical courses in Technical Vocational Education Training in Nairobi County, Kenya; assess the effect of modular digitalization strategy on the performance of technical courses in Technical Vocational Education Training in Nairobi County, Kenya; and establish the effect of modular assessment strategy on the performance of technical courses in Technical Vocational Education Training in Nairobi County, Kenya. Based on Constructivist Theory, this study employed a descriptive survey method targeting 5,633 participants, including 5,204 engineering students, 418 engineering tutors, and 11 principals from 11 Technical Education and Vocational Training institutions in Nairobi County that implemented modular syllabi. The sample size included 359 individuals: 11 principals, 26 tutors, and 322 students. Principals were selected through purposive sampling, while stratified random sampling was used for tutors and students. The instruments’ reliability was confirmed through a pilot study, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.817, 0.752 and 0.814 for modular partnership, digitalization and assessment strategy, respectively, indicating their reliability. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 28.0, where quantitative data underwent descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, and results were presented in tables. Qualitative data was analyzed for themes and sub-themes, and findings were illustrated with quotations. The study found significant positive effects of modular partnership (B1 = 0.403, p = 0.000), digitalization (B2 = 0.432, p = 0.000), and assessment strategies (B3 = 0.216, p = 0.000) on the performance of technical courses in Technical Education and Vocational Training. Moreover, modular digitalization strategy (t = 12.263) had the greatest impact on the performance of technical courses in Technical Education and Vocational Training, followed by modular partnership strategy (t = 11.915), and lastly modular assessment strategy (t = 6.794). The study concludes that modular partnership, digitalization and assessment strategies significantly affect the performance of technical courses in Technical Education and Vocational Training in Nairobi County, Kenya.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN REMUNERATION AND WORKPLACE PERFORMANCE OF TVET GRADUATES IN UGANDA’S MINERAL WATER PRODUCTION INDUSTRY

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN REMUNERATION AND WORKPLACE PERFORMANCE OF TVET GRADUATES IN UGANDA’S MINERAL WATER PRODUCTION INDUSTRY MWEBAZA, IVAN TVET graduates in Uganda’s mineral water industry are frequently subjected to low remuneration. They are often employed on casual or short-term contracts with minimal job security. This study aimed at investigating the relationship between remuneration and workplace performance of TVET graduates in Uganda’s mineral water production industry. The study objectives were; to assess the relationship between monetary remuneration and workplace performance of TVET graduates in Uganda’s mineral water production industry, to evaluate the relationship between non-monetary remuneration and workplace performance of TVET graduates in Uganda’s mineral water production industry and to establish the workplace performance of TVET graduates in Uganda’s mineral water production industry. A quantitative methodology and a descriptive research design were utilized. The investigation was guided by the Human Capital Theory in conjunction with Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. It embraced a positivist research paradigm, concentrating on the gathering of empirical data to uncover causal relationships. The research focused on a demographic of 90 graduates from TVET currently employed in the mineral water production industry. A sample of 73 individuals was chosen for the research. The stratified sampling technique was employed, and quantitative information was gathered through closed-ended surveys. The data gathered was examined through SPSS software. The results indicated a robust positive link between financial incentives and immediate performance. Conversely, non-financial rewards were shown to significantly influence employee engagement and long- term job satisfaction, underscoring their crucial role in boosting workplace morale and loyalty. The research established that a notable correlation is present between both financial and non-financial incentives and the performance levels of employees within Uganda's mineral water production sector, especially among graduates of TVET. As a result, it was recommended that companies adopt an integrated reward system to improve both employee contentment and overall productivity.

COMPETENCY-BASED TRAINING AND SKILLS ACQUISITION OF AUTOMOTIVE STUDENTS IN TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTES IN THE EASTERN REGION OF UGANDA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

COMPETENCY-BASED TRAINING AND SKILLS ACQUISITION OF AUTOMOTIVE STUDENTS IN TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTES IN THE EASTERN REGION OF UGANDA OKUNG, SAMSON This study examined competence-based training (CBT) and skill acquisition for automotive students in Technical Training Institutes in Eastern Uganda, aiming to determine the influence of availability of instructional resources, infrastructure relevance, human resource capacity, and financial adequacy on skill acquisition. A mixed-methods approach integrated quantitative and qualitative data from three hundred forty-one (341) participants, 288 students, 40 instructors, and 13 administrators, selected via stratified sampling. Data were collected using a combination of research instruments, including questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and document analysis. The collected data were analyzed using Minitab (version 2022) to generate both descriptive and inferential statistical results. Quantitative data was processed with descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Instrument validity and reliability were ensured through pilot testing and expert validation. Questionnaires showed instructional resources were moderately effective (mean 2.89, SD 1.28), with 75.7% of students using them weekly, but 80.9% face access issues; FGDs and interviews confirmed shortages (47% students, 80% instructors). Infrastructure was slightly adequate (mean 3.24 students, SD 1.24); with 90.6% finding it conducive per questionnaires, yet interviews revealed 80% of instructors noted outdated equipment (60%), supported by maintenance logs. Human resource capacity supported CBT, with 77.8% of students noting methodology alignment (mean 3.56, SD 1.10) via questionnaires, but interviews indicated 70% of instructors reported staffing shortages, verified by training records. Financial support is inadequate (mean 2.84, SD 1.32), with 87.5% affirming practical training impact per questionnaires, though 38.5% of administrators lacked funding mechanisms per interviews and budget reviews. Recommendations, institutes should prioritize the modernization and availability of instructional resources to reflect current industry standards, institutes need to invest in expanding and upgrading training facilities, recruit more qualified instructors and support staff to mitigate current staffing shortages and institutes must advocate for increased budget allocations and explore alternative funding sources