Browsing by Author "Ocan, Johnson"
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Item Open Access Effects of Universal Primary Education on Completion Rates of Pupils in Primary Schools in Isingiro District.(Kabale University, 2023) Ngabirano, Ziporah; Adyanga, Francis Akena; Ocan, JohnsonIntroducing UPE worldwide led to a surge in enrolment rates in most countries, which often overwhelmed and exceeded the capacity of education systems. Severe constraints such as a shortage of teachers and school materials led to overcrowding in Uganda, the student-teacher ratio moved from 37.6 million in 1996 to 59.4 million in 1997. Dropout rates also increased and survival rates sunk from 59% to 37%. Notable is that promoting a nation's social and economic growth depends on universal primary education. This article investigated the universal basic education policy and the primary school completion rates of pupils in Isingiro District in South Western Uganda. A secondary data review and a qualitative research approach were the study's compasses. Document analysis was done, data from articles reports, and research done by different scholars was collected to identify and examine relevant themes associated with the effect of UPE on completion rates in primary schools of the Isingiro district. The main conclusion was that the introduction of UPE in primary schools of the Isingiro district did not have an observable positive change in the completion rates at the end of primary seven as compared to when UPE was not yet introduced to the Ugandan education system.Item Open Access Exploring the Root Causes of Low Household Income among Smallholder Farmers in Kamuli District, Busoga Region, Uganda.(Kabale University, 2024) Lubaale, Ronald Gideon; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThis study investigated the root causes of low household incomes among smallholder farmers in Kamuli District, Busoga Region, Uganda. Employing a mixed methods approach, the research integrated quantitative and qualitative data collection methods to comprehensively explore the factors influencing household income. The study population comprised 100 smallholder farmers and 20 key informants, totaling 120 respondents. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling were used to select respondents. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, and reliability statistics indicated a high level of internal consistency among survey items. Qualitative data was analyzed by using thematic analysis. The findings revealed significant challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Kamuli District. These challenges were categorized into agricultural production practices and technologies, institutional factors and market dynamics, and environmental factors and shocks. Limited adoption of modern agricultural practices, poor market access, and climate variability emerged as key impediments to income generation. Possible strategies to address these challenges were identified, including the adoption of modern agricultural practices, investment in training and extension services, infrastructure improvements, access to credit, and establishment of farmer cooperative associations. These strategies aimed to enhance agricultural productivity, market access, and resilience to environmental shocks. The study underscored the interconnectedness of challenges faced by smallholder farmers and emphasized the need for integrated interventions involving technological innovations, institutional reforms, and climate adaptation measures. Collaboration among stakeholders was essential to implement effective solutions and promote sustainable development in agricultural communities. By addressing the root causes of low household income, this study sought to contribute to poverty reduction and food security in Kamuli District and beyond.Item Open Access Factors Influencing Recentralization of Local Government Functions in Uganda.(Kabale University, 2024) Biryomumeisho, Stephen; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThe decentralization system of governance is perceived as one of the recent public sector reforms to improve service delivery in Uganda. It is the transfer of authority from Central to Local Governments to execute their duties to improve service delivery. Various developing countries have praised Uganda’s decentralization policy regarding the magnitude of the transfer of authority to the local level. However, since 2003, the Central Government started reversing the policy in terms of decentralization of the appointment of Chief Administrative Officers and Municipal Town Clerks and of recent City Town Clerks (for new cities in Uganda) from the District Service Commissions (DSCs) to the Public Service Commission, recentralization of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) under the management of the Executive Director, Procurement of drugs from the district health office to the National Medical Stores (NMS), recentralization of the payroll and the recent recentralization of local revenue collection from LGs. This paper focuses on the factors influencing the decentralization of Local Government powers in Uganda. This is presumed to be evidence of the demise of the recentralization policy. From the reviewed articles, these factors include accountability challenges, human resource management crisis, political interference by local authorities and lack of financial discipline among local authorities and fear of local autonomy. The paper concluded that decentralization of Local Government functions reduced undue influence of local politicians though it accorded excessive powers to executive officers in Local Governments; the human resource crisis was mainly caused by poor man power planning. Recentralisation of local revenue caused financial constraints at the local level and recentralisation of KCCA led to the weakening of the opposition but led to increases resources to develop the capital city. The paper recommended that the Parliament should harmonize with the central government on the issue of returning Local revenue collection and management at the local level; give reasonable powers to the local Governments to control top technical leadership; increase funding to Central Government staff to monitor Local Government programs and build the capacity of local leaders to improve service delivery.Item Open Access KAB Newsletter Issue 5 (Apr - Jun 2023)(Kabale University, 2023-11) Sempungu, Godfrey J. ; Ocan, Johnson; Saturday, AlexEach issue of the KAB Newsletter presents a deeper and richer view of the university, as well as life at the university and in the surrounding area. We are pleased to share with you the fifth edition of the KAB Newsletter. It is always a pleasure to have the opportunity to discuss life on and off campus. Every day, we interact with our stakeholders such as students, parents, staff, government, and the general community. Several of our successes can be attributed to their presence. As a result of most of what we do and report through our different platforms, we are grateful to enjoy a favorable reputation from our stakeholders. As we report in this newsletter the various activities undertaken by the university’s various departments, we remain optimistic that the pursuit of a healthy relationship will continue to be a priority. As a university, we continually expand our horizons through teaching, research, and community engagement. As a result, we also gain a lot of interesting stories. There are no words to describe how appreciative I am of the indefatigable team of contributors, most of whom hail from the Communications, Branding and Marketing department. You all make this newsletter such a worthwhile source of information. We hope that our readers will find the newsletter engaging, informative, and interactive.Item Open Access Management and Utilisation of Land Resources to Attain Economic Sustainability among Christians in West Ankole Diocese, Uganda.(Kabale University, 2024) Ahereza, Madelean; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThe study set out to investigate the land resources that are accessible in the West Ankole Diocese, their management and use, and the obstacles that stand in the way of the diocese achieving the targeted level of economic sustainability. Districts of Bushenyi, Sheema, Mitooma, Rubirizi, and Buhweju, form the Greater Bushenyi area which is all included in the West Ankole diocese. The study incorporated qualitative as well as quantitative techniques, such as the observation method, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews. Using these methods, researchers observed the behavior of study participants and made inferences about their responses and operations. It was anticipated that the primary conclusions of the results would clarify some shortcomings, highlighting gaps in the methods used for the utilization of terrestrial resources, which resulted in development imbalances, high rates of malnutrition, and food shortages while other resources remained idle. The reasons for this were further explored, and potential mitigation strategies were put forth. In terms of contribution, this study suggested regulated population expansion, informed instruction in contemporary land use, and a shift in land ownership. The limitations of the study concluded that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving the land use practices being conducted. The study looked for novel strategies that, if adopted, would enhance the economic livelihoods in West Ankole Diocese and raise living standards and sustainably generate income. It also identified land resource practices that have contributed to underdevelopment. According to the study, in order to achieve sustainable growth through the use of land resources, the diocese would eventually generate higher economic gains from the resources if the relevant authorities were empowered. The research has been carried out in Uganda for the first time, despite being founded on a review of pertinent papers.Item Open Access Public-Private Partnership and Early Childhood Education in Kasese District, Uganda.(Kabale University, 2024) Kategaya, Raymond Mwesigye; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, JohnsonThe article’s main purpose was to investigate the relationship between public-private partnership (PPP) and early childhood education in Kasese District, Uganda. The main objectives of the study were to establish the role played by public-private partnerships in making certain that children develop numerical skills and expressive communication abilities. The study was conducted through an Ex Post Facto design study design. The target population of the study was stakeholders for early childhood education in Kasese District, Western Uganda. To ensure fair representation, research subjects were selected from each stratum of stakeholders. The scholar thus used stratified and, later on, random sampling techniques. The sample selected had 312 respondents from an estimated total number of 1.417 ECD stakeholders in Kasese District. Primary data was collected by administering a questionnaire that was designed on a 5-point Likert Scale, ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Face-to-face interviews and an observation checklist were also used in the collection of data. Data collected was presented and analyzed with frequency distribution and percentages while the corresponding hypothesis was tested with Chi-square statistic at 0.05 alpha levels. It was found the PPP in ECDs helped in the improvement of numeracy among children. For instance, stakeholders’ work helped in improving children’s counting of fingers on one hand or even copying and drawing shapes amongst young ones. Similarly, respondents indicated that Policy Guideline Formulation due to PPP led children to sort objects by color and shape. Also, results showed that PPP in ECD enhanced communication ability whereby children were able to put up two words together as per caregiver guidance. It also led a child to pay attention to a simple story being narrated and thereafter answer questions from the account. Similarly, it was also found that Institutional Factors for PPP supported expressive ability in children in that they were in a position to follow a simple command. Besides, the availability of suitable Home Environment Factors was also found to promote communication ability in children. Thus, the study concluded that public-private partnership plays a part in ensuring that children develop numerically. concepts. It was also concluded that public-private partnership plays a role in making certain that children develop expressive communication abilities.Item Open Access Teachers' Competence as an Avenue for "Learning Through Play Pedagogy" in Preschools: A Case of Makindye Ssabagabo Division.(Kabale University, 2024) Ngalonsa, Luciana; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThe purpose of this study was to establish whether teacher competence can enhance the use of learning through play (LTP) pedagogy in preschools. Specifically, the objectives of the study were to; examine how teachers' knowledge of the strand matter influences the use of learning through play in preschools, to establish whether teachers' knowledge about learners influences the implementation of learning through play in preschool, and to assess teachers' pedagogical knowledge needed on the use of learning through play in pre-schools. The study was guided by scaffolding instruction as a teaching strategy from the social constructivist theory by Levy Vygotsky (1978). The study adopted a case study design. The study population comprised preschool class teachers, heads of sections, head teachers, and pupils in class observation. Purposive sampling was used to apportion individual members selected. Data was collected using the interview schedule, focus group discussions, and documentary analysis. The qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis and presented in narrative form. These techniques involved observing the study participants & behavior and drawing conclusions based on their responses and actions in the way they engaged in incorporating the learning through play pedagogy. The main findings of the results highlighted and approved that some of the teachers were competent in using the learning through play pedagogy while others still used the teacher-centered approach. Teachers conducted play without a pre-conceived pedagogical purpose. Others still involved children in the learning process in the absence of play. Further investigation revealed that those doing it well had received continuous professional development support, unlike the rest. In terms of contribution, the research recommended pedagogical advancements by showcasing the benefits of learning through play. The novelty of the study concluded that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving ECD practices while using play in learning.Item Open Access The experiences and challenges of Doctoral Education in Public Universities compared(Journal of Social, Humanity, and Education/, 2023-02-08) Ocan, Johnson; Marus, Eton; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ayiga, NatalAbstract Purpose: This article’s purpose is to explore the challenges and experiences PhD students in selected Ugandan state universities endure during their studies. Research methodology: The approach of the research focused on three public universities thus; Kabale University, Makerere University, and Gulu University. To explore these challenges, we undertook an extensive literature review of the external supervisors and evaluations of PhD students who attempted to submit their final dissertations. Results: The main findings of the results indicate that due to institutional, individual, and supervisory inefficiency, many students who enroll in their PhD programs at these universities are unable to graduate within the given timeframe. Limitations: The limitations of the study conclude that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving university training programs and facilitating students, timely completion of the PhD program. Contribution: In terms of contribution, this research will improve scholarly writing and publication abilities, in addition to increasing the identity of doctoral education in Uganda. Evidently, there is no substantial work exploring the difficulties and challenges faced by PhD students in Uganda. Novelty: it is crucial to remember that when pursuing their PhDs, scholars are not just learning about the research topic, but are also developing fundamental skills in critical thinking, to construct their own knowledge within their own indigenous context, it is essential that they acquire the capacity to assess assertions, and evaluate arguments in a critical manner.Item Open Access The Experiences and Challenges of Doctoral Education in Public Universities Compared.(Kabale University, 2023) Ocan, Johnson; Eton, Marus; Akena, Francis Adyanga; Ayiga, NatalPurpose: This article’s purpose is to explore the challenges and experiences PhD students in selected Ugandan state universities endure during their studies. Research methodology: The approach of the research focused on three public universities thus; Kabale University, Makerere University, and Gulu University. To explore these challenges, we undertook an extensive literature review of the external supervisors and evaluations of PhD students who attempted to submit their final dissertations. Results: The main findings of the results indicate that due to institutional, individual, and supervisory inefficiency, many students who enroll in their PhD programs at these universities are unable to graduate within the given timeframe. Limitations: The limitations of the study conclude that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving university training programs and facilitating students, timely completion of the PhD program. Contribution: In terms of contribution, this research will improve scholarly writing and publication abilities, in addition to increasing the identity of doctoral education in Uganda. Evidently, there is no substantial work exploring the difficulties and challenges faced by PhD students in Uganda. Novelty: it is crucial to remember that when pursuing their PhDs, scholars are not just learning about the research topic, but are also developing fundamental skills in critical thinking, to construct their own knowledge within their own indigenous context, it is essential that they acquire the capacity to assess assertions, and evaluate arguments in a critical manner.Item Open Access The Impact of Academic Staff Appraisals on Job performance in Rwanda's Private Universities.(Kabale University, 2024) Ngirabakunzi, Felicien; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThe study aimed to investigate the impact of staff appraisals on job performance within higher education institutions in Rwanda. Its objectives were to assess the types of appraisals conducted in private universities, evaluate job performance in a selected university, and determine the impact of staff appraisal on job performance. Methodologically, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. A sample of 40 academic staff and 2 senior officials from one university was selected using universal and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and one-on-one interviews. Key quantitative findings included a low frequency of academic staff appraisals, with Management by Objectives (MBO) and self-evaluation being the predominant methods. Despite this, job performance among academic staff was generally high, with an overall mean score of 3.49. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation (p < 0.01) between staff appraisals and job performance, indicating a moderate relationship (r = 0.547) between the two variables. Based on these findings, it is recommended that higher education institutions in Rwanda consider enhancing their staff appraisal systems to further improve job performance. Implementing more regular and comprehensive appraisal processes, along with diverse appraisal methods, could potentially lead to increased motivation and productivity among academic staff.Item Open Access Theoretical Review of Pay Restructuring in Uganda's Public Service Health Sector.(Kabale University, 2024) Olum, Samson; Adyanga, Francis Akena; Ocan, JohnsonThis article examines the impact of wage reforms on service delivery, financial stability, managerial efficiency, and donor influence and focuses on the public health sector in Uganda. Like other reforming countries, Uganda also implemented salary structure reform for various reasons, but the most important ones were to pay civil servants a living wage, make remuneration transparent, align the salary structure with the single-spine structure, and consequently increase the number of employees' motivation and efficiency in service delivery. The study analyzed research articles, policy documents, reports, and media coverage on pay changes for public health workers. Key findings show that the original goal of wage reforms, such as the single-spine structure has not been achieved; several pay scale structures were reintroduced. Different service models are used to calculate wages. Similar cadres of civil servants receive different salary grades; and wage allocation receives more funding than other areas, such as development and supplies. The results suggest that salary increases affect allocations in other important areas but do not always result in public health workers' commitment to service. Compromise and negotiation have played an important role in public sector wage restructuring. A review of wage reforms implemented across Uganda's public sector will be based on the recommendations and issues addressed in this study. The study provides crucial benchmarks with regard to wage reform strategies that promote diversity in the public sector and the distribution of authorities. This study is unique because it focuses on wage restructuring in the public sector to align practices with policies. Although based on a review of relevant documents, it was conducted for the first time in Uganda.Item Open Access Water Service Delivery Issues and Challenges for the Urban Poor Zones in Southwestern Uganda.(Kabale University, 2024) Muhamya, Horace; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Francis AkenaThe article aims to examine the issues and challenges associated with providing water services to urban impoverished areas in Southwestern Uganda. The research methodology employed in this study involved conducting a comprehensive desktop study and literature review, systematically searching, and selecting peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and conference proceedings within a specified scope, using carefully chosen keywords and search criteria. After collating and evaluating the selected literature, a thorough synthesis was done to identify existing knowledge gaps and provide insights into the research questions under investigation. The main findings of the results highlight the need for integrated service models to expand water service delivery for the urban poor zones in southwestern Uganda. The study concludes that the problems addressed in this research and the suggestions presented provide the basis for improving water services to urban impoverished areas in Southwestern Uganda. This research will broaden service models for urban areas while also creating service models for locations with features of impoverished conditions. It is crucial to remember that households in urban cells were more likely to use improved water sources (including piped water on-premises), make regular payments for water,rely on shared sanitation facilities, and use manual sludge emptying services.