School of Information, Communication and Media Studies

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Publish or perish in the era of artificial intelligence:
(Emerald Publishing Limited,, 2024-06-28) Ajwang, Stephen Oloo; Ikoha, Anselimo Peters
Purpose This study aims to shed light on the dilemma of “publish or perish” within the context of artificial intelligence (AI) and to suggest approaches that scholars and organizations can implement to enhance ethical behavior in research and publishing. Design/methodology/approach This investigation examined institutional guidelines, policies, processes, norms and prior research to pinpoint ethical patterns that could be leveraged to promote ethical behavior in research and publishing. Findings The research outlined various unethical behaviors that have a detrimental impact on research outcomes including falsification, fabrication, plagiarism, p-hacking, authorship conflicts of interest, salami publication, republishing and manipulation of visual data, as well as incorrect selection of statistical analysis techniques. Furthermore, the study recommends optimal strategies for researchers and institutions to improve the quality of research, such as embracing the Open Research Library, forming partnerships and consortia, adhering to established informed consent standards and safeguarding confidentiality and privacy, among other practices. Practical implications These findings can serve as a foundation for policies that enable institutions and scholars to heighten their comprehension of ethical research practices and establish mechanisms for supervising research outcomes. Originality/value Numerous research and educational institutions are contending with new obstacles brought about by using technologies such as AI. These findings can offer a reference point to stimulate the ongoing discourse regarding the utilization of generative AI in academic settings.
Mobile Based Design for Strengthening Traditional Birth Attendant Health Care Systems in Low Resource Settings: The Case of Migori County, Kenya
(Journal of Applied Humanities and Social Sciences, 2025) Achayo, Irene A.; Abila, James; Ronoh, Lamek
Mobile health applications are established tools for healthcare management, patient education, and capacity building of healthcare providers. However, their use for strengthening Traditional Birth Attendant (TBA) health care systems is surprisingly limited in low resource settings where geographic, social, or economic barriers render the World Health Organization (WHO) policy of facility births untenable. The work presents a blueprint for implementing a mobile-health intervention for strengthening TBA health care systems in low resource settings. The objectives were to establish existing TBA structures, their challenges, TBA user requirements, and to develop and test a prototypical implementation. A mixed methods study facilitated the collection of quantitative and qualitative data from a population of pregnant mothers seeking care within public hospitals in Migori County, TBA & skilled birth attendants (SBAs). A survey instrument administered to 20 patients, 20 skilled birth attendants, and 20 traditional birth attendants was used in establishing challenges of existing structures, eliciting user requirements, and for the design and testing of the prototype mobile based design. Snowballing sampling enabled the researchers reach patients and TBAs who had visited the four public facilities in Rongo Sub County in the second quarter of the year. The focus group discussions method led to refined user requirements, while review of documents on maternal and newborn care protocols enabled the research to determine desired system functionalities for the new roles envisaged by the World Health Organization (WHO) for TBAsin low resource settings. Findings showed that TBA health Care systems were manual with weak links to the formal health care system. Users required a system that could support secure collaboration between TBAs and SBAs, address the problem of scarce SBAs and facilities, improve the convenience, cost and quality of care suitable for their social economic status. Figma was used as a user interface design tool to rapidly prototype the design. The prototypical design was implemented in MySQL and Java. The resulting mobile based design provided users with functionality to register and log into the system, capture, and avail patient data, access global maternal and child health protocols and offer telemedicine sessions between patients, TBA and SBAs. The prototypical TBA app was tested during a focus group session for performance, usability, and utility. The TBA app offers a convenient, cost effective and quality system while addressing the key challenges of manual TBA health care systems in low-income settings. Findings offer valuable design insights for implementing a mobile based initiative to address the challenge of reducing maternal mortality in low resource settings in Kenya and beyond.
The Role of Abamura/Morans in Cross-Border Conflicts among the Maasai and the Kuria of Kenya, 1920-1963
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2024-10-23) Aberi., Kosygin; Nyankangamaangi, Eric
It is a historical fact that most Kenyan communities are haunted by actual or potential ethnic conflicts. Kenya comprises of many ethnic communities that are religiously shaped by their cherished cultures. These are the cultures which influenced the peoples’ behavior and conduct. It is therefore true that most Kenyan communities were directly or indirectly affected by inter-ethnic community crisis. Inter-ethnic conflicts that were so prevalent among the Kenyan communities concerned cultural issues though culture was not uniform in all communities. This study analyzes the contribution of culture in the frequent conflicts between the Maasai and Kuria communities from 1920 to 1963. Conflict theory was employed to examine the conflicts and was reinforced by structural functionalism theory in the analysis. The assumption in this study was that culture was specifically a contributory factor in regional conflicts and therefore needed a local examination. The study relied on secondary and primary data such as those from the existing written sources and from the affected peoples of Kuria and Trans-Mara region. Purposive sampling was used to reach out to the informants. The research was guided by the specific research questions and objectives which included establishing the influence of rites of passage, Moranism/Abamura and religious beliefs on cross-border conflict between the Maasaiand Kuria from 1920 to 1963. This research was confined to cultural issues between 1920 - 1963. Scarce data, hostile respondents, vast land, sparse population and poor means of transport were some of the limitations encountered. The targeted groups of people for interview included the District Commissioners, head teachers of primary and secondary schools, church leaders, chiefs, clan elders, Border Peace Committee members, traditional healers, Morans/Abamura, Agricultural officers and ordinary residents. This research is descriptive and was based at Kegonga Division of Kuria and Masurura Division of Trans-Mara. Data collected was analyzed and the validity of the research examined together with its reliability. The backgrounds of the Kuria and Maasai were also studied to examine the progressive development of cross-border conflict between them since 1920 to 1963 and how culture had been a hindrance to positive adoption of modern lifestyle. Data collected from the field of study was analyzed, discussed, presented and interpreted within the set objectives of the study. The study also examined the aspects of the cultures of both the Maasai and Kuria which were seen to perpetuate cross-border conflict. Such cultural aspects include circumcision, marriage, Moranism/Abamura and traditional religion. Lastly, the summary of the findings, recommendations, suggestions for further research and contribution to literature are presented. The findings of the study revealed that the rites of passage, Moranism/Abamura and religious beliefs contributed to cross-border conflicts between the Maasai and Kuria.
Banditry in Kerio Valley, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya: Blessings in Disguise, Masked Media Coverage, and State Securitization
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2024-10-14) Lormotum, Kiprutto Ernest; Ogenga, Fredrick; Kinya, Henry
In the Kenyan environment, banditry is prevalent among the pastoral communities, impacting on peace and security sustainability. Conflict-displaced victims are associated with positive effects of the conflicts. The focus of this research was on un-intended effects of Kerio Valley conflicts in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya, an ecosystem where mainstream media failed to highlight social impacts of banditry in the facade of consistent securitization by government. The study was grounded on the role of realist theory of forced migration. The study identified two active frames in Kerio Valley conflict: the expansionist narrative and the traditional livestock balancing cultural activity. The study participants involved 43 respondents stratified selected from the locals, elders, women, and the youth and 17 conflict-displaced victims identified using snowball technique. Expert opinions from 11 Key informants purposively selected from religious organizations, CBOs, NGOs, media sector, and national provincial administration conversant with conflict management, took part in the study. Data collection used questionnaire, key informant interviews and field observations. A descriptive research design was used to determine what blessings in disguise were evident, how media was masked and how the conflict had been framed to create securitization effect. The study findings reveal that the expansionist narrative is linked with masked media theory and blessings in disguise outcome. Therefore, this article is designed to address blessings in disguise, masked media and the securitization processes in Kerio Valley. Respondents at 100% said that conflict-displaced victims settled and lived a rosy life, engaging in various civic activities as they integrated and fully assume new roles in society without media and government attention to their plight. The study concluded that banditry in Kerio Valley, despite causing reverse development, opened new fronts to refocus on peacebuilding programmes. The Study recommended that government should protect and preserve human rights principles of conflict-displaced victims through peacebuilding to identify and recognize resilient efforts to support.
The contribution of indigenous medicine knowledge to the delivery of quality healthcare in Migori County, Kenya
(Regional Institute of Information and Knowledge Management, 2024-11-01) Ouma, Cary F. O.; Namande, Ben Wekalao; Kinya, Henry
Rationale of Study – Literature has extensively discussed integrating Indigenous Medical Knowledge (IMK) systems with modern medical practices to enhance the quality of healthcare services. Many countries have also committed to incorporating IMK systems into their healthcare programs. However, in Kenya, the county governments, which bear significant responsibility for healthcare delivery, have not fully embraced IMK systems as expected by the current laws, including the Healthcare Act 2017. Methodology – This study analyses IMK's contribution to providing quality healthcare in Kenya. It took a purely qualitative approach and was guided by a phenomenological research design. Findings – IMK has a profound role in reducing the disease burden in Migori County, both in terms of the many diseases IMK practitioners manage and the advantages associated with IMK practices over biomedical practices. Implications – The study, therefore, recommended that IMK practices be formally embraced as an alternative healthcare delivery system along with biomedical practices in the country. Originality – While much has been written about IMK practices globally, no study has been conducted to correlate this to county governments in Kenya, and indeed, no empirical study has been carried out about this in Migori County
Agile Communication Channels for Enhancing Adoption of Extension Services
(International Multidisciplinary Conference of Rongo University (IJORU), 2024-07-16) Makodiah, Johanes; Abila, James; Agalo, Jerry
Many governments and multi-national agencies have directed a lot of resources towards improving agricultural extension communication but without coordinated, responsive, and audience-focused agricultural extension channels, these efforts have gone to waste. The main objective of this study is to examine the agility of communication channels for enhancing the adoption of agricultural extension services. The study examined the appropriateness, and interactivity of channels; A total of 279 farmers selected from Migori and Homa Bay Counties were interviewed to share their experiences on the agility of channels used during extension services in the production of orange fleshed sweet potatoes. The study population consisted of farmers who participated in Accelerated Value Chain Development (AVCD) project which was implemented by International Potato Centre (CIP) in the two counties in 2017 and 2018. The respondents were identified using systematic random sampling. Quantitative data collection was conducted by use of mobile phone application, Kobocollect. It was established that there was channel agility in terms of venue appropriateness (49%) and the impact of training received (90%) by farmers. There was average interaction agility whereby face to face engagement recorded (48%) most of the time and (49%) half the time. Emerging channels interaction agility was observed in the use of digital platforms (mobile invitation) for meetings at (52%) and inclusion of channel interaction through demonstration was high at (61%). This implies that there is average channel appropriateness and interaction. The extension officers of government and NGOs can use this knowledge of the sensitive, flexible, iterative nature of communication channels to vary their approaches as they communicate during their extension programmes.
Conceptual block chain model for reinforced data integrity about consumed drugs
(International Research Journal of Rongo University (IJORU), 2024-11-05) Orage, Jacob; Abila, James; Mugalavai, Anne
Data integrity is essential in the distribution of public goods, particularly in healthcare where medicinal drugs must be accurately and reliably tracked from supplier to consumer. Issues such as counterfeiting and data tampering compromise drug safety, prompting a need for effective data integrity solutions. This study explores how blockchain technology can enhance the integrity of data in the distribution of medicinal drugs. It reviews the current status of data integrity in drug distribution, reviews literature on blockchain requirements, and designs a conceptual blockchain model aimed at reinforcing data integrity. This study employs a qualitative research methodology, including a comprehensive literature review and stakeholder interviews to assess the current state of data integrity in the drug distribution process and Primary data was collected, then analyzed thematically. The study presents a clear research question for investigation: How can a blockchain model effectively reinforce data integrity throughout the drug distribution process? Furthermore, we designed a conceptual blockchain model aimed at reinforcing data integrity throughout the drug consumption process. This model offers benefits for various stakeholders including pharmaceutical stores, pharmacists, doctors, nursing heads, procurement managers, accountants, hospital administrators, patients, and healthcare providers by providing a reliable, immutable, secure, and transparent system for recording and tracking drug-related information across all departments
Communication Strategies for Effective Conflict Management between Teaching Staff and Principals in Public Secondary Schools in Rachuonyo South Sub-County, Kenya
(International Journal of Professional Practice (IJPP), 2024-11-03) Okoth, Kenneth Odhiambo; Ogenga, Fredrick Oduor; Otieno, Millicent Awuor
Education institutions in Kenya have reported rising cases of conflict between the teaching staff and principals (Ministry of Education, 2002). These conflicts arise from teachers' unwillingness to follow laid down rules and defiance to perceived principals' authoritarian tendencies. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of communication strategies in resolving conflicts between principals and the teaching staff in public secondary schools in Rachuonyo South Sub-County, Kenya. The study was anchored on three theories: Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI), Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), and Interest-Based Relational Approach (IBR). A mixed method approach with exploratory research design was employed in the study. The study targeted 620 teachers and 34 principals in Rachuonyo South sub-county. 10% (62 teachers and 4 principals) sample was selected. Stratified random sampling was used to select teachers, of varied teaching experience from different schools; while purposive sampling was used to select principals, based on their tenure, the size of the school, and their involvement in managing conflicts with teaching staff. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from teachers, while an interview guide was used to collect data from principals. Descriptive statistics was used in the analysis of quantitative data, including measures of central tendency and variability, and thematic analysis was applied on qualitative data. The findings revealed that assertive and non blaming communication strategies were most effective in fostering collaboration and resolving conflicts. The study concludes that implementing communication strategies can foster a more collaborative environment in schools, ultimately leading to more effective conflict management between principals and the teaching staff. The study recommends adoption of appropriate communication strategy for effective resolution of conflicts. The implications emphasize the need for training on preferred communication strategies, ensuring sustainable conflict management in public secondary schools.
Geographic Information System Model Design for Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Management: A Case of Migori Municipality, Kenya
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2024) Okeyo, Sadati Odhiambo; Owoche, Patrick Oduor; Mugalavai, Anne Koster
The purpose of this study was to design and implement a Geographic Information System (GIS) model tailored to address these challenges and achieve sustainable MSWM. The contention of the study is that rapid urbanization and population growth in Migori Municipality have intensified the challenges of municipal solid waste management (MSWM), resulting in inefficiencies in waste collection, disposal, and environmental impact. The study is grounded in Systems Theory, which emphasizes the interdependence of components within a system, the study integrates both technological and environmental factors in its approach. A case study approach was employed, concentrating solely on qualitative data to provide an indepth understanding of MSWM practices in Migori Municipality. The case study method was selected for its ability to explore complex phenomena in a real-world context, offering detailed insights into the challenges and potential solutions for sustainable waste management (Yin, 2018). Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including local authorities, waste management professionals, and IT specialists. Purposive sampling was used to ensure participation from individuals with direct involvement in MSWM, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring themes and challenges. The study findings indicate that the proposed GIS model can optimize solid waste collection routes, improve resource allocation, and minimize environmental degradation. Furthermore, community engagement was identified as crucial for the successful adoption of sustainable MSWM practices. This GIS model provides a tailored, data-driven approach to address the specific needs of Migori Municipality’s waste management system, promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
Media Framing of Climate Change Contents in News Coverage in Kenya
(International Journal of Professional Practice (IJPP), 2024-10) Agalo, Rose Achieng; Peter, Day; Ronoh, Lamek; Otieno, Milicent
Climate change is a phenomenon whose consequences affect nations across the globe, limiting the growth of various sectors. Climate change risk stories affecting Kenya can only gain public attention and become part of the public agenda if the media prominently cover them. On the other hand, the public draws most of its climate change information from the media. The media uses framing to effectively convey information on local climate change challenges, as well as mitigation and adaptation strategies. The study sought to establish the frequency of media coverage of climate change news in Kenya, and to determine the media frames used in the coverage of climate change news in Kenya. The research used mixed methodologies to acquire and analyze data. The target population for the study was N = 8,731. The research utilized random and purposive sampling techniques using Slovin's formula to produce reliable estimates to answer the study's research questions N = 1,362. The study sourced data from newspapers, broadcast media, and journalists. The researchers gathered data through content analysis and interviews. The study employed descriptive and thematic analysis to derive insights from the emerging themes, aligning them with the research question. The study aims to contribute to the improvement of the media framing of climate change in Kenya and the realization of Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action.
Plagiarism conundrum in Kenyan Universities: An impediment to quality research
(Emerald Insight, 2024) Nakitare, Joel
Purpose- Plagiarism has been on the rise, mainly because of increased access to the internet and digital sources. To combat the threat of plagiarism, various universities have implemented countermeasures such as capacity building, anti-plagiarism policies, and the purchase of antiplagiarism software. In Kenya, there appears to be a lack of cohesion among universities in combating plagiarism, a situation that threatens teaching, learning, and research if not addressed adequately. This paper sought to review and identify anti-plagiarism practices in Kenyan universities, it further proposed various best practices and policy actions that ought to be adopted to win the fight and the misperception of plagiarism. Design, methodology, and approach: The study adopted a mixed-method approach by surveying the librarians and interviewing the graduate school directors or deans to establish the strength and challenges in implementing plagiarism measures in the universities in Kenya. Prior to collecting data, the researcher checked the reliability of the tools by pretesting and readjusting the tools based on input from the participants. Findings- The study established that most universities in Kenya appreciate the fact that plagiarism negatively affects the quality of teaching, learning and research. However, despite the fact that there is goodwill in the effort to combat plagiarism, there were no unified mechanisms, strategies, and implementation policies in solving plagiarism issues among universities in Kenya. Different universities have adopted different strategies in terms of policy, software and capacity. Further, it was noted that the well-established/funded universities had clear stipulated mechanisms as opposed to the ill funded universities with limited funding and budget. Practical implications: This research provides an opportunity for universities to makke an informed choice about the policies, required capacity, and software to tackle plagiarism. The findings from the study will be used to improve the quality of academic writing and standardize procedures on plagiarism by proposing policy actions needed to maximize the benefits of the investments in this venture. This study recommends a collaborations approach among universities in the fight against plagiarism. Since the Kenya Library and Information Services Consortium (KLISC) already supports many university cooperation, they ought to take the initiative in formulating policy, choosing the appropriate software to employ, and developing the necessary ability in the battle against plagiarism.
Harnessing the economic value of Indigenous Knowledge in Kenya: A Qualitative Review of the Legal Framework.
(Emerald Insight, 2024) Nakitare, Joel
Purpose – Commercial entities have recently expressed growing interest in commercialising Indigenous Knowledge due to its enormous economic and intrinsic value. As this happens, custodial communities must not be disadvantaged in the process. This paper sought to understand the legal framework of the commercialisation of indigenous knowledge to identify the opportunities and factors impeding or affecting the commercialisation of indigenous Knowledge in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach - The study used a qualitative research approach. An extensive exploratory literature review of existing legal instruments was done to establish the progress and gaps for commercialising Indigenous Knowledge in Kenya. Findings - The study shows that the legal framework of indigenous knowledge in Kenya is inadequate. There are no well-established frameworks and policies to protect indigenous Knowledge in Kenya, and thus, host communities are subjected to exploitation. The diversity of tribes and communities makes it challenging to have a clear framework, mainly because IK is a devolved function. The study identifies the Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions Act 2016 (TK & CE Act 2016), The National Museums and Heritage Act (2006) and the Natural Products Industry (NPI) as the key milestones towards commercialisation of Practical implications - The gaps identified in the legal framework can form a basis for legislation, policy change, actions and research needed to improve the commercialisation of indigenous knowledge. Originality/value- The paper underscores the importance of balancing economic empowerment with preserving cultural integrity and protecting indigenous rights in commercialisation.
The emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya: Apomediaries or Infomediaries?
(Emerald Insight, 2023) Nakitare, Joel; Sawe, Emily; Nyambala, Joyce; Kwanya, Tom
Purpose The main purpose of this study was to investigate the emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya, with a view to determining whether they perform better as apomediaries or infomediaries. The specific objectives were to: examine the characteristics of the changing information universe in which academic librarians in Kenya currently operate; analyze the information-seeking behavior of academic library users in the new information universe; and examine the emerging roles of academic librarians in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a descriptive research design and used an online survey research technique to collect data from practicing academic librarians. The study targeted senior librarians from all the 67 private and public universities in Kenya. One senior librarian per university was purposefully selected to fill the questionnaire owing to their experience and expertise. 33 out of the 67 senior librarians responded to the survey. The collected data was descriptively analyzed using SPSS, and as per the study objectives. Findings The study established that most library users are digital, independent and access library resources remotely. Nonetheless, many users still borrow and utilize print books despite the ubiquity of digital platforms. The findings revealed that academic librarians to a great extent now play the role of apomediaries, going beyond information giving to empowering their users. Practical implications There is need for academic librarians in Kenya to not only be aware of the characteristics of their current users, but also to continuously develop professionally so as to be able to adequately cater for the needs of their clients. Originality/value This paper contributes to the scholarship on librarians’ roles in Kenya by demonstrating that most of them are transitioning to the apomediary roles.
The status of school libraries in Migori County, Kenya
(2023) Nakitare, Joel; Ouma, Cary Francis
Whereas there is a general appreciation of libraries' role in educational performance and literacy development among learners, the status of school libraries still needs to improve. The struggle to secure a workable school library policy in Kenya is far from won. This study investigated the status of school libraries in Migori County by analyzing available resources and giving a framework for their development. Data was collected using questionnaires and Interviews in schools drawn from all eight sub-counties in the county. The data was analyzed thematically based on parameters that define successful school libraries to arrive at study conclusions. The study recommends fundamental policy changes to improve Kenya's school libraries' status.
Establishing community and school libraries: African Library Project experience
(Emerald Insight, 2023-06-02) Nakitare, Joel; Achayo, Irene; Ombima, Meave
ICT4SDG 6: Embracing ICT Integration Attainment of Decency of Water Services Delivery
(Journal of Computing Research and Innovation, 2024-01-01) Knowen, Cosmas Beri; Oloo, Stephen; Ronoh, Lamek; Mokua, Abel
Technological opportunities should be leveraged for the attainment of SDG 8 in SDG 6. In the 21st century, the majority of organizations have adopted and incorporated computer technology for the general their day day-to-day activities. Even though almost all organizations have begun adopting the use of computers and management information systems, water supply companies like Igemo Water Supply company remain sluggish in realizing Digitization objectives. It is on this basis that the study was conducted to collect findings on ICT integration in water billing and consumption to enable the process of implementation, and deployment of a digitized waterbilling and consumption system. The researcher conducted an empirical review to collect literature information for the development and deployment of an electronic water billing and consumption system (eWBCS) for the Igemo water supply company to support the company in enhancing the convenience and efficiency of water billing and consumption management. The prototype of the system was iteratively tested and incrementally improved based on additional user requirements and prevailing environmental needs. The study found that the digitization of water billing and consumption will bring about convenience in water management.
Climate Change News Reporting in Kenya
(International Journal of Professional Practice (IJPP), 2024-09-03) Agalo, Rose Achieng; Day, Peter; Ronoh, Lamek; Otieno, Milicent
The media's increased coverage of climate change has raised global climate change awareness. However, limited resources, and low access to information and scientific expertise have constrained climate change news coverage in Kenya. Competing news priorities and the perceived complexity of climate change issues have further contributed to this limitation. This study investigated the role of journalists in reporting climate change news in Kenya. The study employed a mixed research design where 50 questionnaires were administered to practicing journalists from four media houses based in Kenya; namely, NTV, Citizen TV, Nation, and Standard newspapers, who were purposively selected. Additionally, the researcher collected qualitative data from ten journalists from the 50 surveyed. Descriptive and thematic analysis was conducted to interpret the data according to the research questions. The findings revealed a shifting media landscape in climate journalism, highlighting the necessity for journalists to undergo specialized training in climate reporting. The findings of this study will contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action.
Quality of instruction in upcoming universities in the case of Rongo University, Kenya
(International Journal of Research -GRANTHAALAYAH, 2018-06-22) Omito, Omito
The study aimed at establishing the quality of instruction to Rongo University students with the aim of producing productive university graduates in all sectors of the world’s economy. To achieve this, the researcher formulated one specific objective: to investigate the quality of instruction offered to students by Rongo University’s lecturers. The study used survey design with wellconstructed questionnaires. The target population was 30 regularstudents of Bachelor of Education (Arts) who were training to be business studies teachers in secondary schools in Kenya. A sample size of 28 respondents was reached at by the use of Krajcie and Morgan (1970) table. Simple random sampling was used to pick the respondents. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to analyze data. The study found that teaching in upcoming universities lacked follow ups, right technology and adequate assignments to students. The study also found that Rongo University was not doing enough to migrate into the digital space since the main method of instruction was face to face and at the same time the available university library did not cater fully for the library needs of students who were outside the main campus. The respondents for this study who were studying outside the main campus relied on internet from their mobile phones as the main source of their reading materials. The study recommended robust reforms that could bring in quality to the ever escalating numbers of higher learning institutions in the world.
Assessment of Strategic Messages Communicated for Sustainable Solid Waste Management: A Study of Migori County, Kenya
(New Media and Mass Communication, 2021-08-31) Akong'o, Marren; Agalo, Prof. Jerry; Abila, Dr. James
Solid waste management has become great concern for governments and cities due to its effects on health, environment and climate change. The aim of sustainable solid waste management (SSWM) is to achieve circular economy and realize sustainable development goals. Communication plays a significant role in empowering communities with knowledge, influencing behaviour and promoting collaboration on waste management between governments and communities. Past research shows indiscriminate dumping of waste and inadequate knowledge on how to manage solid waste including reduce, reuse and recycle waste among communities in Africa. However, there is limited focus in research on messages communicated for SSWM. This study sought to assess strategic messages communicated for SSWM and media used in the communication. The study conducted in Migori county Kenya, using a mixed methods approach involved a total of 399 town residents sampled using purposive, stratified, and simple random sampling techniques. The study found lack of focus on strategic messages for SSWM in the communication by Migori county government. Communication is uncoordinated, conducted in public meetings, local radio, and by waste management supervisors. Most community members lack knowledge on SSWM practices. The study recommends communication of strategic messages for SSWM to improve community knowledge of SSWM; communication using participatory media accessible to the community; and inclusion of community knowledge in the construction of strategic messages for SSWM.
An Exploratory Study of Community Involvement in Communication for Sustainable Solid Waste Management: A Study of Migori County, Kenya
(Journal of Environment and Earth Science, 2021-05-31) Akong’o, Marren Atieno; Abila, James; Agalo, Jerry
Sustainable solid waste management (SSWM) is intended to reduce impacts of solid waste on the environment and achieve of sustainable development goals on sustainable cities and communities. Past research focused on the role of mass media in awareness creation and influencing attitude towards solid waste management. However, studies show that awareness and attitude do not translate to positive behaviour towards solid waste management. Objectives of this study were to explore community involvement in the communication of SSWM, establish media used to involve community in the communication of sustainable solid waste management and examine community awareness on SSWM. Qualitative data was collected using face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions from162 participants sampled using purposive, snowball and stratified sampling techniques. Results show minimal community involvement in the communication of SSWM due to lack of structures for community involvement in communication. There was minimal communication of SSWM through radio, public fora and stakeholder meetings which resulted to limited knowledge of SSWM among the community. The study recommends community involvement in the communication of SSWM using participatory media so as to improve their understanding and participation in SSWM.

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