Analysis of students' affairs management and the prevalence of Strikes in Uganda universities: A case study of kyambogo university

Abstract

The general purpose of the study was to analyses students' affairs management and the prevalence of strikes in Universities of Kyambogo University. The study specific objectives were to identify causes of strikes, to examine the level of management of student affairs regarding strikes in Kyambogo University and to identify possible administrative strategies for improving the management of student affairs to mitigate the occurrence of strike sin Kyambogo University. The study was carried out among 121 students and 10 administrative staff, who were selected using simple and convenience sampling strategies. Data was collected using interview guide and a questionnaire. Data was analysed using SPSS Version 17 to generate frequencies, percentages while qualitative data was analyzed using critical judgment approach method following themes and subthemes of the several causes of strikes involving poor communication, denial of student consultation before major policies are passed, poor management strategies, poor quality teaching, delay to release examination results. It was found out that strikes are managed at various levels through putting student bodies to represent them in meeting, improving on the teaching through introducing modem teaching methods, problem based learning. The findings also revealed that putting up a communication platfmm for students, improving on students' welfare services, among others as likely options to reduce strikes. It was concluded that; over 65% of the study respondents agreed that strikes in Kyambogo University are caused by poor funding, under payment of staff, poor management strategies, poor teaching and poor communication; over 68% of the study respondents showed that there are strategies like improving on staff salaries, improving on teaching by introducing modern teaching strategies, creation of student leadership bodies among others; the university management should put several income generating projects to increase on staff salaries, should put up effective team management, should create and student leadership bodies and consult them before policies are passed. It was recommended that; to curb the problem of strikes in Kyambogo university, the university council, should put up committees at all departments and faculty to identify the causes of strikes; the university should strengthen on its revenue base, should improve on the quality of teaching by introducing problem based teaching strategies, improve on communication with students.