Doctor of Philosophy Theses and Dissertations

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A Comparative Study of Natural Radioactivity and Associated Radiological Hazards of Imported Sanitary Ware Products Sold in Kenya
(IRESPUB Journal of Natural & Applied Sciences, 2024-08-25) Natang’ah, Edwin Chemos; Waswa, Michael Nakitare; Khakina, Peter Nyongesa; Kibe, Horace Eyinda
Natural radioisotopes are present in all ceramic products used in building construction at varying rates. The primary source of outdoor radiation that residents of homes or workplaces are exposed to is these radioisotopes. Determining the radiation levels of ceramic items used in buildings is crucial. In this investigation, Thallium doped sodium iodide detector NaI(Ti) was used to measure the natural radioactivity levels (226Ra, 232Th, and 40K) in twelve ceramic sanitary ware products manufactured in India, China and Uganda imported and used in Kenya. For the studied samples, the average activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K radionuclides were 19.5±0.99Bq/kg, 89.75±4.49Bq/kg and 405.75±20.29Bq/kg for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K respectively. With the exception of the average 232Th concentration of studied samples, these results are lower than the global average values (50, 50, and 500 Bq/kg).Values for radium equivalent activity (Raeq), gamma index (Iγ), external hazard index (Hex), internal hazard index (HIn), absorbed dose rate (ADR), annual effective dose (AED), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were also computed in order to assess the radiological risks resulting from naturally occurring radionuclides of the ceramic sanitary ware samples under examination. The mean of the radioactive hazard parameters (Raeq, Iγ, Hex, HIn ,D, and AEDE,) computed for every sample of ceramic sanitary equipment was discovered to be below the upper bounds suggested by global organization safe for ELCR which registered slightly higher values.
Adsorption of Cadmium Ions on Geopolymers Derived from Ordinary Clay and Rice Husk Ash
(International Journal of Materials and Chemistry, 2018-10-07) Maingi, Francis M.; Mbuvi, H. M.; Ng’ang’a, M. M.; Mwangi, H.
The presence of heavy metals in water is of growing concern. One crucial global strain is the existing disparity in water distribution resulting into millions of people lacking access to safe clean water. This is exasperated by the looming climate change and increased pollution impendence posed by industrialization and population growth. Consequently, pursuance of sustainable materials and technologies for wastewater remediation is critical. Adoption of adsorbents for water treatment is desirable due to their simplicity and cheap materials involved. Geopolymers are prepared hydrothermally using alumina and silica gleaned from clay and rice husks waste materials respectively. These materials are locally attainable and environmentally benign. This work reports synthesis of geopolymers GP-1, GP-2 and GP-3 prepared using clays from three different regions. The XRD diffraction patterns obtained revealed the presence of quartz (SiO2), albite (NaAlSi3O8), vermiculite (Mg,Fe,Al)3((Al,Si)4O10)(OH)2.4H2O), microcline (KAlSi3O8), analcime (NaAlSi2O6•H2O) and natrite (Na2CO3) among other crystalline phases. The initial adsorption rates were found to increase as the Si/Al ratio of the geopolymers increased. The adsorption rates were found to fit into the second order kinetic model. This implies that Cd (II) ions adsorb on geopolymer adsorbents through chemisorption.
Aluminophosphates Derived from Tea Leaves and Pumpkin Seeds Ashes Adsorb Lead Ions from Contaminated Water
(Frontiers in Science, 2018-10-08) Maingi, Francis M.; Mbuvi, H. M.; Ng’ang’a, M. M.
One major global challenge is the existing disparity in water distribution resulting to millions of people lacking access to safe clean water. This will certainly be exacerbated by the impending climate change and increased pollution threats posed by industrialization and population growth. Therefore pursuing sustainable materials and technologies for water remediation is crucial. Adsorbents use for water treatment is preferable owing to its simplicity and cheap materials involved. Aluminophosphates molecular sieves have open-framework structures that possess a wide range of pore openings and large surface area for use as adsorbents that can be synthesized hydrothermally using alumina and phosphates. Literature reports indicate that accumulation of aluminum in tea leaves correlates positively with leaf age. The EDXRF analysis showed that tea leaves ash used contained 30.09% of Al2O3. Similarly, literature findings indicate that pumpkin seeds contain relatively large amounts of phosphorous with the pumpkin seed ash used containing 37.01% of P2O5. Consequently, aluminophosphate APA and APB were synthesized using tea leaves to pumpkin seeds ash ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 respectively. XRD characterization and lead ions batch sorption experiments were done. Turbidity column experiment was done. Data for adsorption of Pb (II) ions data on the adsorbents best fitted into the Langmuir isotherm model. Adsorption capacities obtained from the linearized graphs were 90.91 and 50.0 mg/g for APA and APB respectively. This shows that tea leaves and pumpkin waste can synthesize aluminophosphate adsorbents. Aluminophosphates have shown good potential of removing Pb (II) ions from wastewaters.
Analysis of student characteristics and school predictors on academic achievement in Kenya certificate of secondary education examination in Busia county, Kenya
(2017-12) Echaune, Manasi
Students’ academic achievement in secondary school examination is critical in preparing students for further education and the world of work. This is the very reason unsatisfactory academic achievement in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination that has been witnessed in Busia County over the last three years should be a cause worry to the stakeholders in education. This study analyzed the student characteristics and school predictors on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County. The specific objectives of the study were; to establish whether student characteristics influence students’ academic achievement in KCSE in Busia County, to determine the effect of school characteristics on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County, to investigate the effect of teacher inputs on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County and to examine the effect of non-teacher school inputs on academic achievement in KCSE examination in Busia County. The study employed the production function theory. A descriptive survey design was employed. The study targeted 152 principals, 2360 teachers and 7550 students. A sample of 100 secondary schools and 1091 respondents was used. The respondents comprised of 100 principals, 236 teachers and 755 students. The study employed simple random sampling to select teachers and students. Purposive sampling was used to select principals while stratified random sampling was used to select schools. Self administered questionnaires and document analysis guide were used to collect data. Questionnaires were piloted in fifteen secondary schools within Busia County and the schools used to pilot the instruments were not included in the actual study. Test re-test technique was used to ascertain reliability of the questionnaires. The test re-tests of the questionnaires used to collect data yielded reliability coefficients of 0.810 and 0.873 for the student and teacher questionnaire respectively. Experts in the Department of Educational Planning and Management were requested to ascertain both the face and content validity of the instruments. Data was analyzed using STATA version 14. Descriptive statistics including percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations were used in the preliminary analysis of data. Inferential statistics including t-tests, ANOVA, correlation and regression were used to test the study hypotheses. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to test the relationship between academic achievement in KCSE examination, school predictors and students characteristics. The findings of the study were presented in tables and figures. The study revealed that school predictors accounted for the largest variation in academic achievement in KCSE examination (56.86 percent) compared to student characteristics which accounted for 43.13 percent of the variation in academic achievement in the same examination. School characteristic and teacher inputs had no statistically significant effects on academic achievement in KCSE examination. Non teacher school inputs particularly adequacy of physical facilities and textbooks had statistically significant effects on academic achievement in KCSE examination. The study concluded that variation in students academic achievement in KCSE had more to do with school predictors than students’ characteristics. National government, County government, educational planners, principals and School Boards of Management will find the findings of the study useful in planning for education and improvement of academic achievement in KCSE examination. The study recommended that the focus should be on the school predictors such as physical facilities and text books which accounted for a larger variation in academic achievement in KCSE examination.
Attitudes of secondary school students towards premarital sex: effects on schooling and impact on management of HIV/AIDS scourge in the lager Bungoma district
(2009) Wepukhulu, Rispa
A study was carried out in the rural setup of the larger Bungoma District to determine the attitudes of secondary school students towards pre-marital sex (PMS) and the possible impact on school performance and implications for prevention of HIV/AIDS. The study used sets of questionnaires and interview schedules to collect data from 284 form three students, head-teachers and guidance and counselling teachers from selected secondary schools, At community level, data was collected from parents and community-based religious leaders. Student health and class performance records were collected to identify victims of PMS and assess their performance. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis and interpretation. Chi square (χ2 ) test was used to test whether there was significant association between attitude or behaviour of the youth and school type, gender and household socio-economic status. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-statistics were performed to determine whether PMS had a significant effect on academic performance of known cases of PMS and to confirm whether PMS was a significant practice among secondary school students, respectively. It was found out that PMS was a common practice among the students though they generally had favourable attitude towards PMS. The practice was consistent with the unfavourable attitude towards PMS as a tool for expression of intimacy and love. Inadequate communication between parents and the students, lack of comprehensive sexuality education curriculum in schools and programmes in churches left peers and the media as the major source of sexuality information. This impacted negatively on the attitudes and sexual behaviour among the youth. High PMS prevalence impacted negatively on the education sector in terms of decreased completion rate and poor class performance. From the results, it was concluded that the high prevalence of PMS among students in secondary schools in the larger Bungoma District is due to the perception of sex as a tool for intimacy and expression of love. It is recommended that a comprehensive curriculum be developed and introduced in schools at an appropriate stage preferably at upper primary level to equip the youth with right information to help them make informed decisions about sexuality later in their school life. Such curriculum will in addition prepare the youth to confidently face the challenges as future parents. It also recommended that teachers be trained to handle sexuality issues among the youth and to strengthen positive peer group counselling programmes
Biometric properties and network technologies as determinants for a secure electronic voting architecture
(Kibabii University, 2017-11) Rotich, Erick Kiptanui
Codes, designs and graphs obtained from some projective symplectic group
(KIBU, 2019-11) Kananu, Rukaria Lydiah
After the classiﬁcation of ﬁnite simple groups, there is still much work to be done to give a clear geometric identiﬁcation of the ﬁnite simple groups. There are also many problems in enumerating and characterizing a structure which either has a particular group acting on it or which has some degree of symmetry from a group action. It has been shown that there exists interplay between ﬁnite simple groups and codes. In this thesis we construct and enumerate binary linear codes for the projective symplectic group S8(2) from the permutation representations of degree 120, 136, 255, 2295, 5355, 5440 and 11475. We ﬁnd that the support of codewords of a given weight in a code hold a combinatorial design, or represent points of a projective space PG(2m−1,q), or represent the rows of the adjacency matrix of a graph or equivalently are the incidence vectors of the blocks of a design. Through coding theory, the interplay between the combinatorial objects is enhanced and the internal structures of the group characterized.
Critical Role of Usability in the Adoption and Implementation of E-Government Systems: User-Centred Approach
(International Journal of Information Technology, 2024-10-30) Magero, Julius Bwire; Wabwoba, Franklin; Etene, Yonah
The implementation of e-government systems promised to revolutionize public administration, offering streamlined services, improved transparency, and enhanced citizen engagement, ultimately fostering efficiency and accountability within governmental operations and service delivery. Despite the rollout in all 47 counties in Kenya, e-government systems faced high failure rates, resulting in significant losses, diminished user trust, and low citizen uptake. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the role of system usability in the adoption and implementation of e-government systems, with the user at the center. The study adopted a survey research design. A sample size of 228 county employees was selected from a target population of 530 employees through stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were used as data collection instruments. The validity of the tool was tested using IT experts, while reliability was realized through the use of Cronbach’s alpha internal consistency coefficient. Findings from the research suggest that the success of e-government systems heavily depends on their usability and focus on user needs and experiences. This shows that for enhanced adoption of e-government systems, the usability aspects should be carefully looked into with a user-centered approach.
Development of kiswahili education In Kenya between 1900 - 2000
(Moi University, 2007-08) Namulungu, R.I.S.
The purpose of this study was to gather information on the historical development of Kiswahili education and establish the extent to which this development could be linked to the present challenges experienced in the teaching and learning of Kiswahili. Specifically, this research aimed at collecting information on the changes and innovations in instructional methods and resources, the policies and the curricula that have been in place since 1900 and give suggestions and recommendations for dealing with these challenges. The study was confined to Kenya. Both the historical and analytic methods were used in the collection and analysis of data. It drew heavily from both the primary and secondary sources of information. Snowball, purposive and convenience sampling methods were used in the selection of respondents. Interviews with members of staff in the departments of educational foundations, curriculum and educational communication and technology, and teacher college trainers in Kiswahili education were carried out. External and internal criticisms were used in the analysis of the data collected. In some cases triangulation process was applied in the analyses to avoid uncertainty from conflicting data from different sources of information. Findings from the data obtained revealed that at the inception of the discipline in the country, Kiswahili language was not delineated from Kiswahili education. The duo was seen as one or reference to one was mistakenly used to refer to the other. Consequently, little was done to develop theories and methods specific to Kiswahili education. The trend has continued to date. Similarly no policy was put in place during the colonial period that explicitly spelt out how Kiswahili education was to be implemented in teachers’ colleges. After independence, policy statements made sounded ambivalent and are yet to be clearly spelt out. Still, innovations that have been done in both the production of material and human resources from the colonial period throughout the post-independent era were quite insignificant. Hence, this rendered the whole process of Kiswahili education a vicious circle. Furthermore, it is evident that the curricula and syllabuses that were designed from 1900 up to 2000 hardly considered the emerging issues of the times. From the findings and conclusions, it is recommended that a Policy on Kiswahili education and an instruction model should be developed. Similarly, the content of Kiswahili education should be regularly reviewed to cover emerging issues. Further regular research in the area of Kiswahili education should be conducted and seminars organized to disseminate findings. This should be the responsibility of the higher institutions of learning in conjunction with the Kenya Institute of Education.
DIT 0560:Communication skills
(KIBU, 2025-01-21) KIBU
DIT 0560:Communication skills
Early intervention of mathematics difficulties and performance of standard three pupils in primary schools in Butere sub-county, Kenya
(2015-01) Wekesa, Wafula Robert
Mathematics skills are not only a basic requirement for every member of the society to productively engage in everyday activities but also a universal language that finds meaning in all cultures and civilizations. Every tribe, culture and social group thinks and communicates ideas through quantities. Mathematics education is to a nation what protein is to a young human organism. It is not only a vital tool for the understanding and application of science and technology but also a great determinant of the kind of courses children take at all levels of learning. However, poor mathematics performance in the national examinations has been of great concern to the educationists and the society at large. Factors such as students‟ negative attitude to mathematics and high pupil teacher ratio due to Free Primary Education have been attributed to this. However, research studies indicate that six to ten percent (6-10%) of primary school age children in the US experience Mathematics Difficulties which make them struggle a lot in their education. In Kenya, about 20% of learners in primary schools experience Learning Difficulties (LD) in mathematics. These learners achieve poorly in mathematics, their self esteem may be lowered, may become truants and drop out of school. In spite of these, studies reviewed only sought to establish the number of learners experiencing LD in Mathematics and Language and possible factors that influenced the early identification of LD. This study was designed to establish if there was early identification and remedial teaching for children with Mathematics Difficulties in lower primary schools in Butere district. The effect of this remedial teaching on children‟s achievement in mathematics was also investigated. The study was done in Butere district Kakamega County. Descriptive survey and Quasi-experimental designs were used in this study. Stratified and purposive sampling was also used to select eighty learners with Mathematics Difficulties and eight standard three teachers of the identified schools. A questionnaire was administered to class three teachers and a pre and post experimental test was administered to the pupils in the experimental and control groups. The collected data was coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means and percentages were calculated. The t- test calculated was 4.38 with a p< 0.001 level at an alpha p< 0.05. The p value was less than p< 0.05 meaning the result was quite significant and hence the null hypothesis was accepted. This meant there was a significant difference in mathematics performance of pupils with MD who received remedial teaching from those who did not. It was also established that teachers identified pupils with MD, more boys had MD than girls; learners experienced MD in addition with carrying and subtraction with borrowing. Schools mostly conducted paid tuition and not remedial teaching for pupils with MD. The tuition was conducted in the afternoons and during school holidays. There was no significant difference in mathematics performance of pupils with MD neither in public or private schools nor between boys and girls with MD who received remedial teaching. Therefore, it was recommended that MOEST formulate a policy that supports early identification of pupils with MD and give remedial teaching to mitigate the disability. KICD should develop appropriate curriculum and remedial teaching programme for pupils with MD.
Emerging security trends on secure mobile computing in an automated university environment
(Kibabii University, 2016-11) Ananda, Daniel Otanga
Universities are shifting from partially computerized to fully automated environments and technology is equally shifting from point to point to broadcasting options. These trends are resulting n mobile computing for most university users with systems accumulating enormous amount of public, private as well as confidential data on employee, students and the institution. However, mobile computing systems normally come with security issues and different vulnerabilities that make users hesitate adopting them despite the many benefits they bring. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the security levels of information in mobile computing environments with a view to modeling and developing a tool for assessing the level of their security in universities. This was accomplished through evaluating user’s skills capacity, establishing the emerging security challenges, establishing the security approaches on mobile computing, developing a security model and developing security evaluation tool for universities . The study was undertaken using mixed methods design. Stratified random sampling and purposeful sampling was used to select respondents from eight universities. The research tools that were used included questionnaires, interviews, observation and photocopying. To establish the accuracy, consistency, dependability and predictability of the research instrument, the interview schedule and questionnaire were piloted in the selected universities that were not part of the study. Object oriented programming tools were used to develop a tool for assessing security levels in the mobile computing systems. Both descriptive and inferential statistics and used for analyzing data. Data collected through questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and used to measure the relationship between depended and independent variables. Data from interview schedule was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study found out that the users skills capacity in the universities to be fairly moderate. It also established the emerging security challenges in mobile computing to be rising. The study found that the security approaches in mobile computing in the universities to be varying and mostly rely on established security standards. Finally the study developed an evaluation tool (an application or programme) that can be used by universities to establish the level of their mobile system security level. The security evaluation model and a tool for mobile computing developed will be handy in helping university managers in making informed decisions that will guide day to day management of mobile computing. The tool has the ability to help universities to determine the extent to which their use of mobile computing application is safe, hence determine when there is need for enhancement of existing security approaches to mobile computing in universities and mitigate on the future trends in security for the systems. The findings are useful to mobile computing implementers, policy makers and government with regard to the same.
Grid computing adoptability model for collaborative research in universities
(Kibabii University, 2018-11) Kiget, Nicholas Kipkurui
Grid Computing is a paradigm in distributed computing that is appropriate for collaborative research in universities. It is a technology which provides a platform on which computing resources from heterogeneous systems are brought together as needed by the users. Grid Computing, therefore, provides a computing platform on which collaborating researchers requiring huge computing resources can work. Though grid as computing technology portends great benefits to universities, especially to the developing countries, it has challenges in its adoption. A number of universities are in the process of adopting this technology however appropriate model to make the process easily achievable is lacking. This study focused on developing a grid computing adoption model for collaborative research in Universities. The study had five objectives; first, was to find out how universities that participated n UNESCO-HP brain gain in HP catalyst initiatives engaged in collaborative research; secondly, was to determine the extent of grid adoption in the selected universities thirdly evaluate critical success factors for adoptability of grid computing for collaborative research; fourthly was to develop grid adoptability model for collaborative research in universities in developing countries; and fifthly was to develop a tool that could be used to assess level of adoption of grid computing in the universities. The study based on post-positivist philosophy adopted mixed methodology and survey design. The target population of this study was the universities in developing countries. East Africa was used as a cluster zone and four Universities that participated in UNESCO-HP Brain Gain and HP Catalyst initiatives wee purposely selected as a sample. The universities choses were Masinde Muliro Univrsity of Science and Technology and the University of Nairobi in Kenya, Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda. The instruments used were structured questionnaires and interview guides which were administered to respondents in the selected universities. Cronbach’s alpha test was carried out to ensure the reliability of the research instrument and the model was validated by the experts. Both descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, modes and standard deviations and inferential statistics particularly correlation and regression analysis were used for both quantitative and qualitative data. While the findings showed that grid computing had not been fully adopted in the universities, six critical factors affecting its adoptability were established; perceived benefits,, perceived need, availability of collaborative research, availability of computational resources, policies and staff training on collaborative research and grid computing. Another factor found to positively impact on grid computing adoption was the level of education of the researchers. As an output of the study, an adoptability model was developed. In addition, the model was used to develop an innovative tool that could be used to show the level of adoption of grid technology in universities.
Improvement of the Delone and Mclean’s information system success models to focus on mobile instant messaging in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2017-11) Ratemo, Makiya Cyprian
Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) encompasses a range of mobile-based internet facilities that enable exchange of real-time messages while utilizing present information of users. The value of MIM has been recognized globally, instigating an upsurge in its use across all segments of society. Use of MIM has however not been embraced in universities. Research reveals that a comprehensive success model is the solution to achieve success in the adoption, use and implementation of MIM systems in institutions. Currently, a model that focuses on MIM does not exist. This study aimed to improve the DeLone and McLean’s Information Success Models to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging in public universities in Kenya. The study specifically sought to examine the status in regard to measuring success of Mobile Instant Messaging in the context of existing Information System success models, to determine factors for measuring the success of Mobile Instant Messaging systems and to develop an improved Information System success model to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging Systems. Mixed method research design was employed and both quantitative and qualitative strategies were applied. Stratified random sampling method was used to get 655 respondents drawn from 4 cadres of respondents in Kenya public universities as follows; 93 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) administrative staff, 96 ICT technical staff, 98 academic staff and 368 university students. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and interviews. Validity was ensured through data triangulation, peer debriefing and peer review. Reliability was ascertained through a reliability test that generated a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.827. Ethics was taken into account and all relevant clearances sought as required. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze qualitative responses whereas frequency tables, cross tabulations, exploratory factor analysis and squared multiple correlation weights were used in the analysis of quantitative responses. Findings revealed a high rate of use of mobile technology in the organizations under study, underscoring the potential of MIM systems and the need for a suitable MIM system success model. MIM penetration rate for academic staff stood at 63%, students at 60%, ICT administrative and ICT technical staff at 34%. Further, the study identifies 30 success factors and exploratory factor analysis was performed to generate 6 constructs namely; task, social, infrastructural, spatial, temporal and presence. Weighs of the constructs were worked out and a new model constructed and validated for acceptance. The new model is critical for success in the adoption, implementation and use of MIM systems in institutions. This study generated new knowledge in regard to MIM systems, which is important to academia and other relevant stakeholders. The findings stand to help institutions under study to tap into the benefits of the successful adoption, implementation and use of MIM.
Improvement of the Delone and Mclean’s information system success models to focus on mobile instant messaging in public universities in Kenya
(KIBU, 2018-11) Ratemo, Makiya Cyprian
Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) encompasses a range of mobile-based internet facilities that enable exchange of real-time messages while utilizing present information of users. The value of MIM has been recognized globally, instigating an upsurge in its use across all segments of society. Use of MIM has however not been embraced in universities. Research reveals that a comprehensive success model is the solution to achieve success in the adoption, use and implementation of MIM systems in institutions. Currently, a model that focuses on MIM does not exist. This study aimed to improve the DeLone and McLean’s Information Success Models to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging in public universities in Kenya. The study specifically sought to examine the status in regard to measuring success of Mobile Instant Messaging in the context of existing Information System success models, to determine factors for measuring the success of Mobile Instant Messaging systems and to develop an improved Information System success model to focus on Mobile Instant Messaging Systems. Mixed method research design was employed and both quantitative and qualitative strategies were applied. Stratified random sampling method was used to get 655 respondents drawn from 4 cadres of respondents in Kenya public universities as follows; 93 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) administrative staff, 96 ICT technical staff, 98 academic staff and 368 university students. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and interviews. Validity was ensured through data triangulation, peer debriefing and peer review. Reliability was ascertained through a reliability test that generated a Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.827. Ethics was taken into account and all relevant clearances sought as required. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze qualitative responses whereas frequency tables, cross tabulations, exploratory factor analysis and squared multiple correlation weights were used in the analysis of quantitative responses. Findings revealed a high rate of use of mobile technology in the organizations under study, underscoring the potential of MIM systems and the need for a suitable MIM system success model. MIM penetration rate for academic staff stood at 63%, students at 60%, ICT administrative and ICT technical staff at 34%. Further, the study identifies 30 success factors and exploratory factor analysis was performed to generate 6 constructs namely; task, social, infrastructural, spatial, temporal and presence. Weighs of the constructs were worked out and a new model constructed and validated for acceptance. The new model is critical for success in the adoption, implementation and use of MIM systems in institutions. This study generated new knowledge in regard to MIM systems, which is important to academia and other relevant stakeholders. The findings stand to help institutions under study to tap into the benefits of the successful adoption, implementation and use of MIM.
Influence of financial management practice on financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya
(2017) Fwamba, Rashid
The objective of this study was to establish the influence of financial management practice on financial performance of manufacturing companies using evidence from Kenya’s sugar industry. The following specific objectives were addressed by this study: to determine the investing practices on the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies, to assess the influence of capital structure practices on financial performance of sugar manufacturing firms in Kenya, to evaluate the influence of liquidity practices on financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya and to determine the influence of Board structure as a moderating factor on the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya. This study was guided by Liquidity Preference model, Modigliani and Miller Capital structure Model and agency theory. Most researches have concentrated mainly on single financial management decision on the financial performance of organizations. On this premise there existed a knowledge gap on the collective strategic financial management practices practiced by sugar industry and financial performance of sugar manufacturing industry, hence the need for this study. This research adopted a descriptive research design in which a census of all the targeted population of 12 manufacturing companies jointly from sugar manufacturing industry were drawn from a list of 800 manufacturing companies in Kenya, whereby a proportionate random sample of 109 employees were interviewed from all the 12 sugar manufacturing companies in Kenya. Questionnaires were administered as the main tool of data collection whereby 102 questionnaires were collected representing a 93.6% response rate. Descriptive statistical methods were applied to describe application of strategic financial management practices in the sampled manufacturing companies which were sugar manufacturing companies. Inferential statistical techniques such as Correlation analysis and regression analysis were applied to test the hypotheses of association and differences. Collected data was processed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) which was the main computer software that was utilized in data analysis. The strategic capital practices’ null hypotheses were rejected implying a significant effect on financial performance. Strategic liquidity practices were significant hence the null hypothesis was rejected. Strategic investing xxvi practices had coefficients of estimate which were significant implying that the null hypothesis was rejected. Board structure was found significant implying board structure as a moderating value has a significant influence on financial performance. It is therefore recommended that it is important for firms to retain their profits so that they can reinvest and gain higher returns on investments and shareholder equity furthermore Organizations need to utilize computers in cash management since they are efficient and effective. This study suggests the need for further research on other economic factors besides financial management practices that influence the financial performance of sugar manufacturing companies and other companies.
Integrated Cloud Computing Environment Model (ICCEM) Towards Affordable ICT Integration in Education
(IOSR Journal of Computer Engineering, 2019-04-30) Etene, Yonah; Ikoha, Anselemo Peters; Wabwoba, Franklin
Cloud computing is one of the universal Information Communication Technology(ICT) development and its implementation in education can contribute towards solving the existing problems and also contribute to meeting ofeducational goals at an affordable cost. The application of Cloud Computing in education will not only ease educational institutions from the obligation of managing complex Information Technology infrastructure and maintenance activities, but will also lead to substantial cost savings. This paper assesses the technologies being used in education in primary schools, analyzes the human capacity that manage ICT integration in primary schools and develops an Integrated Cloud Computing Environment Model towards Affordable ICT Integration in primary schools. The study employedresearch science design approach. It was used to perform a background research, collect data inform of requirements and design the model.Questionnaires, guided interviews and observation checklist were used to collect data from the respondents. Validity was achieved by use of experts while reliability of the instrument was achieved by pretesting and piloting the instrument ofstudy. The study established that hardware, software and their subsequent maintenance costs when dealing with a wide range of hardware, and basic ICT skills are required for successful Integration of ICT in education. When ICT integration in education is made affordable to governments, schools and stakeholders through careful planning, it can be successfully incorporated in education.
Measurement of Radiological Parameters in Harvested Sand in Bungoma County Rivers, Kenya
(Journal of Engineering and Technology for Industrial Applications, 2022-02-08) Waswa, Michael Nakitare; Maingi, Francis M.; Wanyama, Conrad Khisa; Sindani, Lazarus
Samples of sand were collected along the course of ten selected rivers two from each river through random sampling. Activity concentration of 238U, 232Th and 40K were measured using high resolution NaI(Ti) gamma ray spectrometer. Activity concentration of the three primordial radionuclides obtained were used to calculate, absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose rate, interna and external hazard indices and radium equivalent. The average activity concentration for the three primordial radioactive nuclides were; 2±0.1Bq/kg with a range of 0± 0.03Bq/kg to 4±0.24Bq/kg for 238U, 55±2.78Bq/kg with a minimum value of 32±1.6Bq/kg and a maximum value of 87±4.38Bq/kg for 232Th and 51±2,56Bq/kg with a minimum value of 27±1.37Bq/kg and a maximum value of 76±3.8Bq/kg for 40K. The mean activity concentrations for 238U and 40K were below the world averages of 33Bq/kg and 420Bq/kg respectively. The indoor and outdoor annual effective dose rate varied from 0±0mSv/y to 0.2±0.01mSv/y with an average of 0.1±0 mSv/y and 0±0.003mSv/y to 0.1±0.009mSv/y with a mean of 0.1±0.006 mSv/y respectively. The annual effective dose rates were below the safe limits of 1mSv/y. Therefore, use of sand from the selected rivers in Bungoma County, Kenya for construction has minimal health risks to the inhabitants.
Modelling cloud computing environment towards accessible information communication technology integration in primary schools
(KIBU, 2019-11) Etene, Yonah
Cloud Computing technology has developed with the proliferation of the Internet, broadband access networks and high-speed processors. This has led to the development of software defined networks and storage, to respond promptly to the requirements of users and applications. Information and communication technologies when employing cloud computing can open up new opportunities that can improve delivery of education. In financing the acquisition of ICT technologies for integration in education in Kenya, there is need for proper planning to realize accessibility of ICT Integration in education. The purpose of the study was to model the use of cloud computing so as to make ICT integration in primary school education accessible. These was achieved by assessing the ICT technologies being used for integration, analyzing the human capacity for managing ICT integration, developing a cloud computing environment model towards accessible integration of ICT and a cloud computing accessibility evaluation tool to assess the level of accessibility of ICT integration in primary schools. The study was guided by the design science research design. The design was used in the study to do a background research in order to collect data on the ICT technologies being used in schools and the ICT human capacity for managing the technologies. It was then used to develop a model. The target population was (425) Primary schools. The sample frame included 100 schools which had ICT equipment. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the schools where a sample size of (30) was obtained. A head teacher (1) and two (2) teachers from each school were used in the study corresponding to (90) respondents. The primary data was collected using questionnaires and guided interviews. To stablish content and face validity the study involved a team of three (3) experts while reliability was obtained through a pilot study. Data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found out that, hardware devices dominant in schools were mostly laptops, tablets and projectors. The learning management system was found to be the most important system required for accessible ICT integration in education. It was also found that technical skills were highly required, followed by basic hardware skills and green Computing skills. Training in ICT is thus required to develop a competent human capacity for successful accessible ICT integration in education. The study also established that Internet connection in schools was very key in the integration process yet many schools were not connected. The findings of the study provides an Integrated Cloud Computing Environment Model that can used to realize accessible ICT Integration in education. This will guide the government and education stakeholders in planning for ICT integration of in primary schools. The model was used to develop a Cloud Computing Accessibility Evaluation Tool that can be used by the MOE to assess ICT integration accessibility level in primary schools.
Modelling hardware technologies and socio-technological features as indicators of mobile phone usage patterns
(KIBU, 2018-11) Ronoh, Richard Kipkemoi
Today’s youth are growing up in an environment of constant connectivity, instant information and dynamic technological advancements. Advances in technology and the competitive market driven demand has led to addition of new services and features on mobile phones. To the majority of mobile phone users, these innovations of mobile phone features are rarely used. Consequently, many of the mobile phone features are never used even though they significantly contribute to power consumption, cost of the mobile phone and memory space. This study sought to investigate mobile phone features and their usage patterns among university students in Kenya. The study was carried out by investigation of the behavioral characteristics that influence the usage of mobile phones, the mobile phone features that influence mobile phone selection and usage, and the relationship between the usage of mobile phone features and the motivational needs among university students. The study was guided by the Usage and Gratification Theory (UGT), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Mixed research design was used to carry out this study whereby survey design was used to gather data and experimental design was used in the development modeling of mobile phone features and their usage patterns. Data collection tools included interview schedule and a questionnaire for survey while the incremental development tool was used in the simulation of Mobile Phone Usage Assessment Tool development (MPUAT). The study found that technological development, uncertainty avoidance and individualism as well as collectivism were the behavioural dimensional characteristics that influenced university students’ usage of mobile phones. The study further established that mobile phone selection amongst university students was influenced by its appearance, number of technological features, accessibility and connectivity. In addition, if found out that though the number of features of a mobile phone did influence the selection the usage of the very features was not of much essence. It was also established that the university students’’ motivational needs were based on information gathering, relationship, entertainment and organization. Based on the findings of the study a Mobile Phone Feature Usage Model (MPFUM) was developed. MPFUM is handy in aiding university students to determine and express their mobile phone usage needs in nontechnical terms. The model would also guide marketers and manufacturers/designers to easily convert the expressed user needs into the features required hence meeting better the needs of the users without wastage. This is critical in conserving power and better memory utilization hence giving users better service. The findings alongside contribution to the academia world will be handy in enabling policy makers to make informed decision on matters regarding mobile phone features and services.

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