The influence of privatisation on the learning environment in Public universities in uganda: a case of Kyambogo University.

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of Privatisation on the learning environment of public Universities using Kyambogo University as a case study. The study specifically sought to determine how private students, autonomy of university and accountability of financial resources, impact on the learning materials, quality of teaching and student administration (learning environment). Primary data was collected from 96 selected respondents. Ninety two (92) responded to the questionnaire and 4 key informants to the interview guide. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and a key informant interview guide. The study adopted a cross-sectional correlation- survey research design. Data was analyzed using descriptive, inferential and content analysis. The findings revealed that fees payment by private students, autonomy and accountability positively contributed to learning environment in public Universities in Uganda. There was an improvement in the quality of teaching, teacher commitment, and in the quantity and quality of learning materials due to privatization. Given the fact that teaching and learning materials are the most important determinants of the quality of learning; the study has revealed that in order to improve learning in higher institutions; autonomy, accountability and more private students should be encouraged. When faculties and departments are given authority to make decisions regarding allocation of fees paid by students, if they account for these payments effectively, this increases the quality of learning and subsequently the performance of universities. The research recommends that public universities should improve their accountability systems, to show students how and where their money is spent, give faculties and departments more authority to allocate financial resources from private students to crucial aspects of the learning environment, lecturers remuneration and purchase of modern learning materials. This will significantly improve the performance of public universities, nationally and internationally.