A Comparative Study of Completion Challenges Facing Regular and Parallel Degree Students of Egerton University Constituent Colleges, Kenya.

Abstract

This study purposed to identify the completion challenges faced by parallel in comparison to regular degree students in their studies in constituent university colleges of Egerton university. The study was conducted in Kisii and Laikipia university colleges which until recently were university colleges of Egerton university. The study involved 607 and 332 parallel and regular degree students in Laikipia University, 191 and 177 parallel and Regular students in Laikipia university college respectively. Also included in the study were 15 and 25 regular lecturers in Kisii University College and the Deans of students’ and Academic registrars in Kisii and Laikipia university colleges. The study adopted a comparative design as it was appropriate in the investigation of different independent groups of university students. The samples were selected by use of both purposive and snowball sampling techniques and the data was obtained by use of questionnaires. The data collected was presented by use of tables and bar graphs and it was analyzed by use of descriptive statistics. The study found that fewer students in the parallel degree programme were provided with loans by HELB while the general public was not willing to fund their education. The study also established that students’ welfare with regard to access to morning and evening lectures, participation in co-curricular activities and selection of courses was not catered for. The students had challenges in accessing their lecture halls, Dean of students, lecturers and libraries. This had an impact on the completion rates of parallel degree students compared to the regular students. From the findings of the study recommendations were made to HELB, university management, local administration, parents and other stakeholders on how the situation could be improved.

Key words: Completion, Parallel Degree Programme, Regular Degree Programme, Laikipia University College, Kisii University College.