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Item AN ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE DELIVERY OF MATERNAL HEALTH AWARENESS BY CHVS IN THIKA SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) AKINYI, IRENE; NYERERE, IAN; NGIGI, IRENEThis paper examines the involvement of the community health volunteers (CHVs) in improving maternal health Awareness in Thika, Kiambu County, Kenya, given the perennial maternal health problems in low-middle-income countries. Although the communities CHVs work with need them to bridge gaps between service delivery and communities, little is known regarding how CHVs’ education, training, age, and engagement in activities within the selected communities affects their ability to facilitate awareness of maternal health. Specifically, an aim is to evaluate factors as education, training, age, and engagement and the ways they influence maternal health Awareness. The study therefore present hypothesis, claiming that there are no correlation between education, training, age, community engagement and awareness on maternal health among the CHVs. This research design adopted a descriptive survey design the research targeted about 100 CHVs and mothers in Thika district and used a stratified sampling method in order to get equal representation. Structured questionnaires and triad-based key informant interviews for quantitative collection methods. The hypothesis was tested using both descriptive and inferential statistics, with chi-square as the statistic of interest for the latter while content analysis and thematic coding for the qualitative data. The reliability was tested internally via Cronbach’s alpha and is set at a minimum of 0.7 validity was tested internally via pilot testing and expert review. These comprise of issues to do with consent and approval from the applicable review boards. Therefore, by filling the gaps found out in the existing literature, it is believe that this study shall provide useful information to the health policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and training programmes so that maternal mortality rates down in Kenya and quality of maternal health services improved. The results are expected to be useful in enhancing the sustainable improvements in the effectiveness of CHV through education, training, and resource management planning to the goals of the sustainable development index in the aspect of maternal healthItem AN EVALUATION OF SECURITY EFFECTIVENESS ON FOOD SECURITY IN ISIOLO COUNTY(Gretsa University, 2025-10) RUKIA, MOHAMED BORUUnited Nation Report (2020) and the World Bank through there years of research has shown the global that the upcoming versions of extremely dangerous conflicts currently are more less become more sophistical. More and more parties including non-state and far more state organization due to this major parties involvement that have resulted to extreme and more by unexplainable lives lost in the scramble to show who has the most power, communities, people and event wildlife have been had to relocate due to the now unfriend inhabitants, Investments such houses had to abandoned due to the war, the social life flashed down the drains due to wars the economic life not left aside had to restructure from scratch to cope survival difficult times. This Northern raging disagreements especially in the north eastern of Kenya, we have in Isiolo County one of the counties that from time to time has tried to solve the thing know as sustainable food growth, but it is still on it knees struggling. This study seeks find a way that this situation on food security can be tackles by the horn in Isiolo County and necessary conflict resolution measures taken in Isiolo County. Specifically, the researcher is to dig deep into the matters of hostilities; the after math of the insecurity on food security; and ways that can very effective to reduce the conflicts or to nullify it completely to return the community to the peaceful norms. The researcher majorly took inconsideration of the descriptive survey design to this study to gain more data to make the study a success. Study areas that the researcher choose was a location that mostly had seen the after result of continues disagreement between the communities and the wards are; Wabera, Bulla, Pesa, Chari and Cherab wards in Isiolo County. Coming to analysis the data for the study was collected on one-on-one interview session with the members of the affected community, active discussion in communities formed focus groups and captured chosen key statements in the interview sessions. We have this sample techniques known as the Systematic was used to choose the household that we used in the study to collect the data, a total of about 1000 of them. 100 households received the questionnaires distributed. For the interview session Stake holders who had valuable information were invited to participate in the research study, from number identified some community‟s ember randomly selected take part in the FDG session for inclusion purposes. The Qualitative data collected went through thematic analysis. Quantitative data were cleaned normalized and feed to analytic software know as SPSS and results were output table and graphics for at a glance view. Ethical and logistical consideration was sought from the school of humanity and social science of Gretsa University and research department to find a humble time with data collection permission from local community leaders for data collection purposes. The effectiveness of food security from the data that was analyzed showed vividly that the variables security policies for food that they had the huge impact on the due to some many households not adhering to some farming policies, it was also concluded that Trends of global in security also had a huge impact on food security in Isiolo county from the data that was analyzed in other words it did have much impact due to its nature of the global level. The researcher arrived at his conclusion and concluded that the that the Insecurity and major impact when it comes to pastoralism and agriculture had the most impact on the food security due to its nature of pastoralist moving from area to area and the unfavorable factors like the weather and the small land conflictsItem CHALLENGES FACING DIGITAL LEARNING IN UNIVERSITIES IN KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) NASEI, MERCY; CHERUTO, BRILLIANT; KEMUNTO, PHIBIAN; CHEPKOECH, MERCYDigital knowledge has developed as a vital component of higher education, particularly in the wake of technological advancements and disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, universities in Kiambu County, Kenya, face significant challenges in implementing effective digital learning systems. The study aims to identify and analyze these challenges, focusing on technical challenges, financial constraints, and content coverage and deleverage. This will be through questionnaire interviews to gather information from the institutional university students, lecturers, and IT staff in selected universities in Kiambu County. Major findings suggest that insufficient internet access, restricted availability of digital devices, and insufficient training for educators are major barriers to successful digital learning implementation. The research underscores the need for target interventions, including investment in digital infrastructure capacity-building programs and inclusive policy frameworks to enhance digital learning in higher education. These findings provide a foundation for policymakers and university administrators to address the digital gap and improve education quality in Kiambu CountyItem CHALLENGES FACING THE TRANSITION FROM THE PRIMARY TO JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL IN ST JOSEPH KEBURUNGA PRIMARY SCHOOL NYAMARAMBE SUB- COUNTY, KISII COUNTY ,KENYA.(Gretsa University, 2025-10) NYANGWESO, NAOMYThe transition from primary to junior secondary school (JSS) under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya has presented several challenges to learners, teachers, and education stakeholders. This study investigated the challenges facing the transition from primary to JSS in St. Joseph Keburunga Primary School, Nyamarambe Sub-County, Kisii County. The specific objectives were to examine the influence of school-level factors, student-level factors, family and community support, and general challenges on the transition process. The study adopted a descriptive research design and targeted 98 respondents, including teachers, learners, and education officers. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed descriptively with frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. A response rate of 91.8% was achieved, which was considered adequate for analysis. Findings revealed that while classrooms were fairly adequate (80% agreement), inadequacies were noted in teacher training, staffing, and provision of learning resources. At the student level, learners were academically prepared and motivated, but challenges existed in emotional adjustment and study habits. Family and community support was evident, particularly in parental involvement with homework, yet financial constraints emerged as the most significant barrier (71.1% agreement). General challenges included environmental adaptation, learner anxiety, and the cost of transition. The study concludes that successful transition to JSS is influenced by multiple interrelated factors, with financial constraints and insufficient resources being the most critical. It recommends investment in school infrastructure, continuous teacher training, enhanced guidance and counseling services, greater parental involvement, and financial support mechanisms to ensure smooth transition.Item DETERMINANTS OF DEFERMENT OF STUDIES AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN GRETSA UNIVERSITY, THIKA SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2024-07) KIOKO, IREEN MUTHEUThe case of deferment of studies among students at Gretsa University has increased at a very alarming rate in the last 2 years. The study assessed the determinants of deferment the objectives being: to investigate the influence of financial constraints on students' decision to defer their studies, to evaluate the impact of health issues on students at Gretsa University's decision to defer their studies, and to determine the connection between students’ choice to defer their studies and early pregnancy. The study employed a mixed-methods research design. The target population was be 40 students from different schools in the institution and 10 administrative staff, a total sample of 50 respondents was used. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and was to be analyzed using descriptive statistics that is pie charts, frequency distribution tables, and graphs. Financial constraint was found to be the major determinant of studies deferment and it can be curbed in various ways including students taking part in online jobs like freelancing to earn some extra money. On health issues parents ought to make sure their children are under a medical cover such as NHIF in case of any health emergency. The study can be replicated in determining reasons for deferment of studies among students in other universities in KenyaItem EFFECT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFOMANCE: A CASE OF GRETSA UNIVERSITY THIKA SUBCOUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA.(Gretsa University, 2025-10) ASUMARI, GEOFFREY NYABUTOAcademic performance and learning outcomes are being revolutionized by the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into higher education. This study aims at finding out possible advantages and difficulties of examining the complex effects of AI on academic achievement at universities. The study will be guided by the following objectives. To investigate how AI technology, affect students' participation, motivation, and engagement in their coursework. To identify and analyse the ethical concerns and psychological impacts associated with using AI in academic settings. To evaluate how AI tools, impact the efficiency of learning processes and administrative tasks in educational institutions. To assess how the use of AI affects students' development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The study will be guided by augmented intelligence, connectivism and Zone of Proximal Development theories. The research instruments used are questionnaires. Content validity will be used to examine each questionnaire in turn and compare the content. To assure item reliability, the test-retest method will be used.Item EFFECTIVENESS OF LEARNER - CENTRED LEARNING ON UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE: A CASE OF EDUCATION STUDENTS AT GRETSA UNIVERSITY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) NASIMIYU, MARION; CLAIRE, VALENTINE; BRELYNE, RASSY; OBARE, ELIAKIMThis study assessed the influence of learner-centered teaching strategies on the academic performance of students at Gretsa University. It focused on assessing whether instructional methods like group discussions, student presentations, peer-led sessions, and case-based learning enhance comprehension, engagement, and academic achievement. The study objectives were: to identify the learner-centered techniques most commonly used by instructors, determine the frequency of their application, evaluate students’ perceptions of their effectiveness, and identify challenges in their implementation. The Faculty of Education's undergraduate students were the target of the study. Using Yamane's (1967) formula, a sample of 90 students were selected. Structured questionnaires were used to gather the data, and descriptive statistics including primarily frequencies and percentages shown in tables and charts were used for analysis. Students' opinions and experiences were captured by conducting a thematic analysis of the qualitative data. The results revealed the most commonly used learner-centered strategies were group discussions and student presentations. The majority of students concurred that these tactics enhanced participation in class activities, fostered collaboration, deepened understanding, and raised engagement. But the study also pointed out a number of issues, such as packed classrooms, little instructional time, a lack of resources for instruction, and trouble efficiently managing group projects. The study concluded that learner-centered teaching strategies, when effectively implemented, positively impact students’ academic performance and learning experiences. It suggests that universities make investments in sufficient teaching resources, lower class sizes to facilitate more interactive learning, and give lecturers ongoing professional development opportunities in order to increase their efficacy. Improve their abilities in active learning techniques. Students should also be motivated to participate and work together in order to take more ownership of their educationItem EFFECTS OF DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE ON ACADEMIC PERFOMANCE AMONG STUDENTS AT GRETSA UNIVERSITY(Gretsa University, 2025-10) WEKESA, CHRISPINUS; ONIX, MARY KHATSENZIA; CHEPKOECH, MEDAH; KWAMBOKA, VANEDrug abuse in Kenyan schools has become a pervasive issue with detrimental effects on student learning, performance, and moral behavior. If left unchecked, this menace could lead to widespread indiscipline and unmanageable schools and higher learning institutions. Despite the severity of the problem, limited research has been conducted on drug abuse and its impact on academic performance and social wellness in Gretsa University. This paper delves into the causes, forms, and effects of drug and substance abuse on Grestsa university students. It drew upon existing research to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue and presents strategies for addressing the associated problems. The paper outlines the research methodology of the study on drug abuse and its effects on academic performance in Gretsa University. Questionnaires were employed as data collection instruments. The study focused on the students. Data collection was conducted between January and April 2025 using structured questionnaires. The research methodology addressed the study's objectives and provided valuable insights into drug abuse and its impact on academic performance in Gretsa University. According to the findings from the data collected, the study reveals that drug and substance abuse has a negative impact on students’ academic performance. Key findings show that students who engage in drug and substance abuse often experience poor concentration, memory loss and low motivation which leads to declining grades. The conclusion of the study emphasizes that substance abuse not only affects academic outcomes but also impacts students’ overall well-being and future potentials. Therefore, there is an urgent need for universities, colleges, schools, parents and communities to work together in creating awareness, offering guidance and implementing preventive measures to help students stays focused and succeed academically. Based on the findings of the study, several recommendations can be made to address the negative effects of drug and substance abuse on academic performance. First, the universities, colleges and schools should strengthen their guidance and counseling departments.Item EFFECTS OF FLOODS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MATHARE SUB-COUNTY, NAIROBI, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) LUMAYO, ESNASThe main aim of this study is to find out the effects of flood on academic performance of students in public secondary school in Mathare sub-county, Nairobi County Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives ,to investigate the correlation between the frequency and duration of school closures due to flooding and changes in standardized test scores among secondary school students , to determine the extent to which self-reported stress and anxiety levels in secondary school students following a flood event predict their performance on classroom assignments and participation and to understand how the level of disruption to students' home environments caused by floods (e.g., displacement, loss of belongings) relates to changes in their ability to concentrate and finish classwork effectively. The Social Construction theory was used in carrying out the research study. The total target population was 360 respondents. One data collection tools were used, a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages, graphs and frequently distribution tables. The findings indicate a clear relationship between floods and academic performance in public secondary schools in Mathare Sub-County. The frequent school closures disrupt the educational process, affecting teaching as well as students' ability to learn and perform academically. The stress experienced by students following flood events further exacerbates these challenges, showing the importance of psycho-social support in the aftermath of such disasters. The research recommends that Schools should develop and implement disaster preparedness plans that outline specific protocols for responding to flooding events, including communication strategies and evacuation procedureItem EFFECTS OF POOR MENTAL HEALTH ON STUDENT'S ACADEMIC PERORMANCE IN THIKA SUB-COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA.(Gretsa University, 2025-10) KIPLANGAT, EZRAMental health issues continue to be a significant challenge that impacts the academic performance of students in Thika Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya. This study looked at how psychological problems like stress, anxiety, and depression affect students' ability to succeed academically. Finding out how common mental health problems are among secondary school students, examining the impact these problems have on academic achievement, and evaluating the efficacy of school-based support networks were the goals. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data, while interviews were conducted to gather qualitative viewpoints from instructors and students. The research aimed to connect mental health conditions with academic achievement while identifying gaps within institutions regarding the management of these issues. The results highlighted the degree to which mental health challenges impede academic performance, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. By addressing these issues, the research aids in the development of policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing student well-being and fostering academic achievement. In essence, it emphasizes the importance of mental health as a vital component of both educational success and overall personal growth.Item EFFECTS OF SELECTED CULTURAL PRACTICES ON EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AMONGST GIRLS IN NAROK COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) CHEPNGETICH, BRENDA; AUMA, REBECCA OGINGA; SABINA, MERCY MIGIRO; CHEPKOECH, CHARITYThe study investigated effects of cultural practices on girl child educational achievement .The objectives of the study was: Analyze the effects of female genital mutilation among girls on educational achievement among girls in Narok County, to examine the effects of early marriages on educational achievement in Narok County and to evaluate the influence of gender roles on girls educational participation and achievement within the County .The study was conducted using descriptive survey design .The target population was teachers 30 and 70 parents .The study sample will be drawn 5 secondary schools across 2 educational zones utilizing stratified sampling for schools and Purposive sampling for teachers and parents .Data was collected primarily through questionnaires and analyze using both qualitative and quantitative technique of data analysis. The findings revealed that cultural practices remain deeply attached in maasai community, significantly influencing girls educational outcomes. FGM was found to cause physical and psychological trauma that limit class attendance and concentration while early marriage emerged as primary factor contributing to school dropout among girls. Gender roles further limited academic progress by burdening them with domestic responsibilities that reduced their study time. The correlations analysis indicated a strong negative relationship between the prevalence of harmful cultural practices and educational achievement levels among girlsItem EFFECTS OF SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS OF PARENTS ON ACCESS TO EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THIKA SUBCOUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) MITCHELLE RAEL; BEATRICE MUTHON; DANIEL LEDAMAThis study examines how parental socioeconomic status (SES) affects the availability of educational resources for high school students in Thika Sub-County. It examines how disparities in family income and parental education levels lead to differences in students’ access to crucial learning resources and facilities, thereby affecting their academic outcomes and future prospects. The research had the objective of Investigating how parental income influences students’ access to educational resources. Evaluating the impact of parents' education levels on the availability of learning resources and infrastructure and lastly to recognize the differences in resource access for students from varying economic backgrounds. Data were collected via questionnaires distributed to a diverse sample of students and parents from various high schools in Thika Sub-County, using a descriptive survey design. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used in the analysis to reveal connections between SES factors and resource availability. The results uncovered substantial inequalities in access to educational resources correlated with SES. Students hailing from families of higher socioeconomic status and better-educated parents enjoyed greater access to essential learning resources like textbooks, technology, and extracurricular activities than those from families of lower income. It was discovered that these disparities contributed to variations in academic performance and future opportunities. The results highlight the necessity for focused policies to deal with inequities in access to educational resources. Among the recommendations are greater financial support for schools in low-income areas, offering subsidized educational resources, and establishing initiatives aimed at helping students from underprivileged backgrounds. The goal of such measures is to promote fair educational opportunities and improve academic results regardless of socioeconomic statusItem EFFECTS OF VIOLENCE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE: A CASE OF GRETSA UNIVERSITY(Gretsa University, 2025-10) NJUKI, GERALD MUTURI; MUGURU, PHOEBE MWANIKI; NYAMBURA, MERCY KIMANISchool violence is a solemn and growing concern that impacts students not only substantially, but also emotionally and academically. This study, conducted at Gretsa University, explored how different forms of violence—including spoken abuse, physical assault, bullying, and cyberbullying—affect students’ academic performance. Using a expressive examination design, data were gathered from 170 students through questionnaires and interviews. The findings were alarming: 79% of students had faced verbal abuse, which led to anxiety and reduced classroom participation; 57.6% reported physical abuse, often in social spaces like hostels, resulting in fear and absenteeism; 70.6% had experienced bullying, which discouraged group work and class involvement; and 58.9% had suffered cyberbullying on platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, causing emotional distress and withdrawal from online learning spaces. Statistical analysis confirmed a strong negative relationship between violence and academic performance, with bullying (r = -0.61) and verbal abuse (r = -0.59) having the most significant effects. Affected students struggled with concentration, missed classes, lost motivation, and recorded lower grades. The study recommends stronger mental health support, stricter anti-violence policies, digital safety training, and confidential reporting systems to help create a safer and more supportive learning environment at the universityItem EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS IN THIKA SUB-COUNTY(Gretsa University, 2025-10) MAINA, CEPHAS; MUTISYA, GERALD; MOMANYI, JOB; RAPHAEL, MERCYThis paper examines the effects of social media on the interpersonal relationship of college students in Thika sub-county with the aim of looking off more at three problems where social media influences the face-to-face communication informs curated content on social media to self-perception and self-esteem and the emotional impact of cyber bullying that content in cyber bullying. The study focused on the mixed-methods design combining quantitative questionnaires and validated scales data with qualitative data provided by semi-structured interviews. 514 college students from Thika, Kiambu County, Kenya, was selected through stratified random sampling. Quantitative analyses reveal significant findings: higher social media usage frequency is negatively correlated with face-to-face communication frequency, curated content significantly impacts self-perception and self-esteem, and cyber bullying profoundly affects emotional wellbeing. It additionally contains theoretical framework which clarifies the theory in which this study was supported. The two keys are social comparison theory and uses gratification theory. The data was collected through questionnaires. This allowed the study to be covered faster as it can easily collect the data from large population.Item FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENTS’ PERFOMANCE IN ENGLISH IN THE KENYA CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION IN TETU SUB COUNTY, NYERI COUNTY(Gretsa University, 2025-10) GATHONI, IVY MAINAEnglish has remained the core language used in Kenyan schools throughout the years. Student performance in English therefore directly affects their overall performance, bearing in mind that the majority of the subjects are taught and examined using English. Low performance in English therefore is often tantamount to poor grades across other subjects. The aim of this study was to investigate determinants of students' performance in English language in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in secondary schools under Tetu Sub-County, Nyeri County. The research aims were to investigate the availability of teaching and learning resources, assess students' and teachers' attitudes toward English, and determine the impact of teaching procedures on students' performance. The sample involved students in secondary schools and English teachers from the sub-county. The descriptive survey study design was employed, with stratified random sampling to obtain a representative sample of participants and schools. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using qualitative and quantitative approaches, including descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Poor pedagogical practices and learning resources, unfavorable subject attitudes, and inadequate instructor training were the principal drivers of underperformance in the English subject, according to the research. Intensive intervention in resource management, instructor development, and attitude change programs is recommended by the research to improve students' performance in the English subject as well as their overall academic performanceItem FACTORS INFLUENCING ADULT EDUCATION ENROLLEMENT IN THIKA SUB COUNTY, KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) OUMA, FALDO OMONDI; AKEYO, AZENATH; KIBUI, MARGARET NYAMBURA; NG’ETHE, GRACEThe study’s purpose was to investigate factors influencing enrolmrnt in adult education in Thika subcounty, kiambu county. The study objectives were to study the prevalence of adult education and to study factors influencing enrolment. The target population for this study consisted of 110 respondents where 80 learners participated and 30 teachers also participated. The research methodology used was descriptive survey design. The sample was selected randomly, the study incooperated use of questionnaires which were structured into close ended questionnaires. Data was annalysed using statistical package for social science(SPSS) through descriptive statistical technique .qualitative was categorized and presented in emergent themes and hence the findings presents using tables. The findings revealed the factors such as time availability, cost of education and family support had a great impact on enrolment in adult education centersItem FACTORS INFLUENCING CAREER CHOICE AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KERICHO COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) KIPNGENO, EVANCE LIMOChoosing a career remains one of the most challenging decisions for secondary school students, as it significantly influences their future livelihood, identity, and success. In Kenya, despite government initiatives such as career guidebooks and counseling programs, many students continue to make ill-informed choices, often leading to dissatisfaction, mismatched skills, and unemployment. The problem arises from limited guidance, parental pressure, peer influence, and inadequate teacher involvement in career mentoring. l students in Kericho County, focusing on family background, peer influence, and teachers’ guidance. The research targeting 300 students, 90 teachers, and 150 parents, selected through random sampling. Questionnaires and interviews were used descriptive statistics, percentages, and charts. family influence played the most significant role in shaping students’ career decisions, as parents often provided guidance and acted as role models. Peer influence was found to be the least significant factor, proportion of students admitting that they considered their friends’ choices. Teacher influence had a moderate impact, mainly through advice and mentorship, though the absence of updated career guidebooks limited their effectiveness. The study concludes that career choice is a multifaceted process shaped by parental advice, teacher guidance, and, to a lesser extent, peer pressure. The study recommends strengthening career counseling programs in schools, updating career handbooks, and engaging parents through sensitization forums to reduce undue pressure on students. Further, teachers should be trained and supported to provide effective career guidance. The findings are significant to policymakers, educators, parents, and students in promoting informed career decision-making and reducing mismatches in the labor marketItem FACTORS LEADING TO PROLONGED STAY OF PATIENTS IN KENYATTA NATIONAL HOSPITAL (NAIROBI COUNTY)(Gretsa University, 2025-10) OKOTH, JOSHUA ONYANGOThe study titled "Factors Leading to Prolonged Stay of Patients in Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi County" investigates the determinants of extended hospital stays and examines how patients' financial status influences the quality of healthcare they receive. The research objectives are to identify and analyse key factors contributing to prolonged hospital stays, assess the impact of financial status on healthcare quality, explore dimensions of healthcare quality affected by financial constraints—including access to services, treatment outcomes, and patient satisfaction—and recommend evidence-based strategies to reduce prolonged hospital stays while addressing healthcare disparities linked to financial challenges. A sample size of 289 patients was selected through stratified random sampling, ensuring representation across different financial backgrounds and hospital departments. Data was collected via structured questionnaires, patient interviews, and hospital records. Statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis and ANOVA, were employed to identify significant factors contributing to prolonged hospital stays and to assess the influence of financial status on healthcare quality. Findings revealed that key factors such as operational efficiency, communication between healthcare providers and patients, and activity scheduling were critical in determining the duration of hospital stays. Poor communication and inefficient scheduling contributed to delays in patient discharge, particularly for patients facing financial difficulties. Additionally, the quality of record-keeping and management processes significantly influenced the hospital's ability to manage patient flow efficiently. Patients with financial constraints experienced more challenges in accessing timely care, which in turn prolonged their hospital stays. Conclusions drawn from the study indicate that addressing operational inefficiencies, improving communication channels, and ensuring better access to healthcare services for financially disadvantaged patients are essential strategies for reducing prolonged hospital stays. The study recommends investing in hospital infrastructure, enhancing staff training, and implementing policies aimed at reducing healthcare disparities linked to patients' financial status. These interventions are expected to improve overall patient satisfaction and healthcare outcomes at Kenyatta National Hospital. The study provides valuable insights into the systemic issues prolonging hospital stays and offers strategic recommendations for improving patient flow and reducing healthcare disparities. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the study, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring the confidentiality of patient information, and securing approval from relevant ethical review boards.Item IMPACT OF GIRIAMA CULTURAL PRACTICES AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT TOWARDS SCHOOL ENROLLMENT IN WATAMU WARD, MALINDI SUBCOUNTY, KILIFI COUNTY, KENYA(Gretsa University, 2025-10) MUTUA, KELVIN MUIAThe main aim of this study was to determine impact of Giriama cultural practices and community involvement towards school enrollment in Watamu ward, Malindi Sub County, Kilifi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives that is to determine the correlation between specific cultural practices (child marriage, vocational training) and school enrollment rates, especially for girls, to investigate how factors like socioeconomic status, educational resources, parental involvement, and cultural emphasis on education combine to influence school enrollment rates and to assess the impact of culturally-relevant curriculum materials and teachers from similar backgrounds on school enrollment and academic achievement in diverse communities. The sample size of the study was thirty percent of the total target population of the respondents that is 324 , therefore the sample size will be 97 Two data collection tools was used, a semi-structured questionnaire and an interview guide. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods were used. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages, graphs, pie charts and frequently distribution tables.Item IMPACT OF SMASE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS CHEPALUNGU SUB-COUNTY, BOMET COUNTY, KENYA.(Gretsa University, 2025-10) CHEMUTAI, JOYThis study investigates the impact of Strengthening of Mathematics and Science in Secondary Education (SMASE) program on secondary school teachers’ performance in Chepalungu SubCounty, Bomet County, Kenya. The SMASE program, aimed at enhancing teacher training in mathematics and science, has been instrumental in improving instructional quality in Kenya’s rural areas. However, despite its implementation, Chepalungu Sub-County continues to experience low student performance in these subjects. This study explores the role of teacher education levels, teaching strategies, and the availability of teaching aids in influencing student outcomes. Using a descriptive research design, the study collected both qualitative and quantitative data from teachers, principals, and students across secondary schools in the region. The findings indicate that while the SMASE program has contributed to the improvement of teachers' instructional skills, challenges such as inadequate resources and limited access to advanced teacher education persist. The study concludes that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address these barriers, including better resource allocation and continuous teacher professional development to enhance the program's effectiveness in improving student performance in mathematics and sciences.