bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of Methodist Church of Kenya Pastoral Programs in Addressing Orphans’ Spiritual Needs in Day Secondary Schools in Imenti North Sub-County
Authors: Makathimo Eunice Karambu , Kinoti Mary , Njoroge John 
Published: February 2025

Pastoral care program is used in schools to offer learners spiritual assistance while ensuring their overall well-being is catered for by designated pastors. There are various responsibilities bestowed upon licensed pastors in MCK church fraternity which are derived from the authority given in ordination. The roles of these pastors are categorized into four capacities, namely, word, sacrament, order and service as witnesses, service of Christ's love and justice in mission as pastors, or superintendents. However, the delivery of these roles to orphans in day secondary schools has not been fully realized. Hence, concerns about the pastoral programmers’ effectiveness in the wake of increased suffering and misconduct among orphans has arisen. This study, therefore, aimed at assessing effectiveness of Methodist Church in Kenya sponsorship programs on material and spiritual needs of orphans in day secondary schools in Imenti North Sub-County. The study was guided by Erickson’s Psychosocial Development Theory and Maslow’s Theory of Human Motivation. Mixed research methodology was applied. The target population was 285 respondents from 17 secondary schools sponsored by MCK. A sample size of 207 respondents who comprised of church education committee leaders, superintendent ministers, guidance and counseling teachers, principals, and orphaned students was obtained. Stratified sampling method was utilized in choosing orphan respondents for this study. The study concluded that spiritual nourishment and counseling were the major services offered by MCK pastoral programs. However, the frequency of these services was low leading to high school dropout rates. Therefore, the study recommends increased and regular counseling and spiritual nourishment services.
Status of Preparedness of ICT User Training and Skills Development in Implementing Curriculum through Online Distance Teaching and Learning in National TVET Institutions in Kenya
Authors: Munene Rose Mbuthu , Ngeera Flora Gacheri , Kanyi Charles Mugo 
Published: February 2025

There is immense pressure for online courses at TVET institutions. In order to address this demand, TVET institutions are required to implement a responsive curriculum for training through online mode. Incidentally, the rise in technology applications allows institutions of learning to adopt ICT in providing education and training. Despite the importance attached to online teaching and learning, the preparedness for the same has continued to face several setbacks in TVETs in Kenya. The study’s purpose was to assess the status of ICT user training and skills development preparedness in supporting the implementation of curriculum through online distance teaching and learning at national TVET institutions in Kenya. The study was anchored on Bruner’s constructivist learning theory. It collected data from three national polytechnics, where trainers in Applied Sciences Department, trainees, heads of department and principals were the main respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. A sample size of 248 respondents, comprising of 3 principals, 3 heads of department, 35 trainers and 207 trainees was selected. The sampling techniques adopted included purposive sampling to select trainers, HODs and principals; and stratified sampling technique for trainees. The validity and reliability of research instruments were ascertained accordingly. Percentages, mean and standard deviation were conducted on quantitative data; while, thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The study findings show that ICT user training was crucial for effective curriculum implementation of online teaching and learning in national TVET institutions in Kenya. Further, findings indicated that preparedness was at moderate level, indicating gaps on ICT usage that required to be addressed. The study recommends that development of comprehensive and ongoing training programs to equip both the trainers and the trainees with the necessary skills and competencies to effectively utilize online platforms and digital resources in TVET institutions.
Influence of Sustainability of Spiritual-Economic Projects on Growth of Methodist Church in Kaaga Synod, Kenya
Authors: Lairangi Jeniffer Kinya , Kinoti Mary , Njoroge John 
Published: February 2025

The mission of the church is to contribute to the transformation of the dehumanizing economic structures. Nevertheless, churches in Kenya have experienced a lack in financial leadership and spiritual support for projects; occasioned by absence of spiritual guidance in the implementation of economic projects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of sustainability of spiritual-economic projects on growth of the Methodist church in Kenya, Kaaga Synod. The study was guided by stewardship theory, and adopted descriptive research design. The target population was 25 Circuits of Methodist Church, Kaaga Synod, Meru, Kenya. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 53 project managers, while simple random sampling technique was used to select 196 project members, constituting 30 percent of the project membership population across the sampled circuits. Questionnaires were used to collect data. A pre-test study was conducted in Methodist church in Nairobi synod, where 5 projects heads and 20 community project members were included. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, frequencies and percentage. SPSS version 29 was used to analyze the data, and results were presented in tables. The study found out that church projects, such as schools and financial institutions, were negatively impacted by Covid-19, resulting in low income. Consequently, the church has taken longer time than anticipated to deliver its mandate. The study recommends that the church council to develop strategies that would enable the church projects recover more quickly from the adverse effects of Covid-19 pandemic.
Influence of Proximity Distance and Route Map in M-Shopping Applications on Consumers' Behavior in Nairobi Metropolitan
Authors: Mwove Agbesters Ndolo , Mwenda Lawrence Muriira , Mutua Robert Murungi 
Published: February 2025

A consumer's mobile shopping behavior heavily depends on several factors including, but not limited to gender, age, literacy, occupation, marital status and available communication technology. Ubiquitous technology has significant influence on behavior that is convenient for mobile shoppers. This research sought to study the influence of proximity distance and route map in m-shopping applications on consumers' behaviour in Nairobi Metropolitan. A cross-sectional research design was adopted and a sample size of 106 respondents determined using a simple random sampling technique. The primary data was collected through structured survey questionnaires, after which, STATA software was used for analysis. The study established a statistically significant relationship between the convenient in m-shopping applications and consumer’s m-shopping behaviour (ꭕ2=6.370a, p=.041<0.05). A statistically significant relationship between the proximity in the current m-shopping applications and consumer’s m-shopping behaviour was also noted (ꭕ2=13.234a, p=.001<0.05). Further, findings indicated a positive statistically significant relationship between the route map in the current m-shopping applications and consumer’s m-shopping behaviour (ꭕ2=72.192a, p=.000<0.05). Analyzing the influence of proximity distance on consumer’s behavior revealed that, consumers tend to favor businesses located closer to their current location when making buying decisions through m-shopping applications. Further, provision of vendor-consumer real-time navigation assistance would enhance consumer’s behavior. Despite the high deployment of mobile shopping applications, less attention is given to the proximity distance and route map aspects in the mobile shopping landscape. Consequently, this negatively impacts on the consumer’s m-shopping behavior. This study serves as an intervention target for improving the consumer behavior. It is therefore recommendable that the developers of m-shopping applications adopt a holistic and consumer-vendor centered approach to mobile applications. In addition, implementation studies should be employed to model this and identify other factors that may be useful to effectively improve m-shopper’s behavior.
Gender Diversity Policies for Enhanced Service Delivery among Chartered Universities in Kenya
Authors: Maina Charity Nyambura , Nzioki Susan , Mugambi Kenneth 
Published: February 2025

Integrating gender diversity policies into organizational structures is vital for sustainable development and climate action. However, there is a notable gap in the implementation of these policies, especially in Kenyan chartered universities. This study evaluated the influence of gender diversity policy implementation on service delivery in Kenyan chartered universities. The hypothesis: there is no statistically significant relationship between gender diversity policy implementation and service delivery among chartered universities in Kenya, was tested. The researcher employed a descriptive survey design, and the target population was 15,545 administrative staff and full-time lecturers. Using stratified and purposive sampling techniques, the population was divided into teaching and non-teaching staff. Random sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 390 respondents, comprising of 120 teaching staff and 269 administrative staff was calculated using Yamane (1967) formula. A pilot study was conducted to test the validity and reliability of the research instruments. The study employed Findings revealed that universities with effective gender diversity policies demonstrated enhanced service delivery, efficiency and effectiveness. Descriptive analysis showed moderate correlation among variables, particularly supporting flexible working hours for nursing mothers, gender-mainstreaming awareness, and prohibition of sanctions related to pregnancy or marital status. Statistical analysis indicated a significant positive correlation (R = 0.514) between gender diversity policy implementation and service delivery. The study concluded that gender diversity policy implementation significantly enhances service delivery in Kenyan chartered universities. The study recommends that universities develop practical and comprehensive gender diversity framework, with continuous monitoring and evaluation, implementation, training, and sensitization programs that guarantee commitment to gender diversity initiatives.
Skilled Birth Attendants’ Factors and Management of Postpartum Hemorrhage in Level Four and Five Hospitals in Lamu County
Authors: Chege Edwin Ng'ang'a , M'mayi Consolata , Kyulu Teresia 
Published: February 2025

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is considered a significant contributor to elevated rates of maternal death. Subsequently, it stands at 4% in Kenya. PPH is also the most common complication of third stage of labor. However, with skilled workforce, adherence to recommendations, PPH can be managed in hospitals. The study sought to investigate skilled birth attendants’ factors on the management of PPH in level 4 and 5 hospitals in Lamu County. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. The target population for this study included all doctors, clinical officers, nurses and midwives in level 4 and 5 public hospitals in Lamu County. Census method was employed to obtain the 64 respondents in this study. The study employed questionnaires. The initial section focused on gathering demographic information to outline the characteristics of the sample. The subsequent section was designed to collect data related to the study variables, which were instrumental in elaborating the study components and addressing the research questions. Prior to the main data collection, the instruments were pretested in Mombasa County to improve their validity and reliability. Data was organized and entered into SPSS version 25 to create a data file. Subsequently, the researcher screened and cleaned the data to identify and correct any errors, and a preliminary analysis was conducted to check for violations of the assumptions underlying the statistical techniques used. Findings were presented using tables. The results revealed a significant positive influence of skilled birth attendants' factors on PPH management in level 4 and 5 hospitals in Lamu County (r=0.762**, n=41, P<0.05). The study concluded that skilled birth attendant factors: teamwork, knowledge and competency—significantly influence PPH management in Lamu County. It recommended regular training for skilled birth attendants to enhance knowledge and competency. Additionally, healthcare institutions should promote teamwork through inter-professional workshops, ensuring better PPH outcomes.
Uptake of HPV Vaccine, Knowledge of Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccine among Caregivers in Tana River County, Kenya
Authors: Kamuya Laureen Wamaitha , Masinde Lily , M’mayi Consolata 
Published: February 2025

The global target for eliminating cervical cancer by 2030 entails achieving 90% HPV vaccination coverage among girls under 15. Despite the established safety, effectiveness, and cost efficiency of the HPV vaccine, uptake remains suboptimal in many regions, including Tana River County, Kenya, contributing to the persistent cervical cancer risk. This study assessed knowledge of cervical cancer, HPV, and HPV vaccine, along with vaccine uptake in Tana River County, using a community-based descriptive cross-sectional survey design targeting 27,392 caregivers of girls aged 9-14 years. A sample size of 378 was determined using the Fisher et al. (1998) formula, and stratified random sampling technique employed across the three sub-counties. A pre-test study was conducted in Tana River County involving 38 community health volunteers with daughters aged 9-14 years. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data and results presented using tables. The results recorded HPV uptake of 56.9%. Significant knowledge gaps were revealed with many respondents mistakenly viewing eating khat (61.6%), poor hygiene (73.4%), chronic UTIs (85.6%), and having an IUD (60.8%) as risk factors for cervical cancer. Only 47.9% knew smoking is a risk factor and 31.1% knew HPV affects both men and women. Only 36.4% correctly identified cervical cancer symptoms, 44.0% knew it is curable and 47.9% were unaware that the HPV vaccine is most effective before sexual debut. The study concluded knowledge gaps persist on risk factors, symptoms, curability of cervical cancer, and the effectiveness of vaccination before sexual debut. recommends that the Tana River County Department of Health strengthen public health messaging to correct misconceptions about non-risk factors, emphasize the symptoms and curability of cervical cancer, and highlight the benefits of vaccinating girls before they become sexually active.
Role of County Health Governance in Implementation of Social Insurance National Scheme in Selected Counties in Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Eunice M. , Tenambergen Wanja M. , Mapesa Job , Wairia Samuel K. 
Published: February 2025

Health care financing (HCF) is one of the building blocks of a health system. Kenya envisions to have Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2022. To achieve this, the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) was identified as a vehicle towards the realization of UHC. NHIF collects revenue, pools risks, and purchases health services for its members. NHIF uses capitation as a strategic purchasing model to provide primary care health services (PCHS). This study aimed to establish the role of County Health Governance in implementation of the NHIF national scheme. Specifically, the study sought information on NHIF’s communication with the County Health Management Team (CHMT), CHMT knowledge of NHIF national scheme guidelines, suitability of county health facility Infrastructure , adequacy of NHIF capitation funds, NHIF accountability and how they all influence provision of NHIF primary care health services. This was a cross sectional research. All 120 County and Sub-County Health Management Team members were purposively sampled from Nakuru and Nyandarua Counties, a 96% (115) response rate was achieved. Results showed that, 64(56%) of respondent said NHIF was accountable to the population, 73(63%) said the county health facility infrastructure was adequate and 67(58%) said there were guidelines directing implementation of NHIF PCHS. However, 66(57%) said patients were not accessing NHIF primary care health services, 70(61%) said capitation funds were not adequate and 59(51%) said communication from NHIF to them was inadequate. Chi square results indicated that all variables, NHIF communication χ² = 5.364, p < 0.05, availability of guidelines χ² = 10.447, p < 0.05, suitability of county health facility infrastructure χ² = 13.199, p < 0.001, adequacy of NHIF capitation funds χ² = 6.956, p < 0.05 and NHIF accountability χ² = 10.982, p < 0.05 were scientifically significant and influenced implementation of the national scheme outpatient services.
Patterns of Alcohol Use among Students in Private Faith-based and Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Wachira Rebecca Njambi , Sindabi Aggrey , Chepchieng Michah 
Published: February 2025

Alcohol use and associated risky behaviours is a leading cause of injury and death among university students and young adults in many parts of the world. Despite growing problems of global alcohol abuse among university students, accurate information on the patterns of alcohol use among university students in Kenya remain sparse. The objective of this study was to establish alcohol use patterns among students in both private faith-based and public universities in Kenya. The study was carried out in 2 private faith based universities and 2 public universities. A total of 374 students responded to a structured self-administered questionnaire (a response rate of 98%). Alcohol use patterns were measured by AUDIT and CAGE questionnaires. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. Alcohol use in the last month prior to the study was reported by 30.5% of the respondents. Alcohol use was more prevalent among the fourth years and those living off campus but not with their parents. Low risk alcohol use pattern was reported by 83.4% of the respondents. About 11.0% reported hazardous drinking pattern while only 1.6% and 4.0% were at harmful and alcohol dependence levels. Only 8.4% displayed problem drinking pattern. A significant relationship was found between patterns of alcohol use on AUDIT scale and type of university, however, problem drinking did not differ by university. It was recommended that university management and all the stake holders implement screening for alcohol use among students because there are students who engage in harmful and hazardous use and may not voluntarily seek help. Harmful and hazardous alcohol use patterns among students are a detriment to their health and negatively impact those around them.
Standardization of Light Emitting Diode Feedback on Metered Solar Home Systems
Authors: Koech Victor , Mbogo Chao 
Published: February 2025

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are used in a variety of devices ranging from watches to solar home systems, as status indicators or communicative tools. However, the communicative output varies across devices of similar or different functions. This variation and the sense that there is a wide array of expressions that can be employed, makes it hard for users of the devices to deduce the feedback easily. To address this gap, this paper discusses the effectiveness of a standardized light-based interface for metered solar home systems, which has been redesigned using a structured Human Computer Interaction (HCI) design process. The study makes use of the UFuRT (User, Function, Representation and Task analyses) framework to evaluate the use of these devices ethnographically and contextually among solar home-system owners in the Rift Valley region of Kenya. To understand how solar home systems users utilize multi-communicative LEDs, 111 solar home system owners participated in in-person interviews. The results indicate that, on average, 51% of solar-home system owners cannot correctly interpret or do not know the LED feedback of the device they own. The quantitative and qualitative data collected from the in-person sessions was used to design a simulated standardized interface of a metered solar home system. The effectiveness of this newly designed interface was measured by interviewing another set of 43 solar home system users. The results indicate that, on average, up to 63% of solar system owners correctly interpret the LED feedback mechanisms of a standardized design. Further, up to 86% of solar system owners correctly interpret specific feedback mechanisms of a standardized design. With these findings, the study concludes that using a HCI framework to standardize the interface design of LED-touting devices increases the expressivity and user understanding of feedback relayed by these devices.
Satisfaction with E-Resources and Perception of Libraries by Postgraduate Students at Daystar and Multimedia Universities in Kenya
Authors: Murithi Caroline Kathomi , Gichohi Paul Maku , Irura Grace 
Published: February 2025

University libraries are expected to provide current, varied, sufficient and authoritative information resources for all academic programs on offer, and adopt information communication technologies in information provision and management. However, issues of support services offered on e-resources, competencies of library staff, provision of diverse e-resources and satisfaction with e-resources are some of the issues that cause dissatisfaction among postgraduate students. This study sought to examine how satisfaction with e-resources influences perception of libraries by postgraduate students at Daystar and Multimedia Universities in Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to determine satisfaction with e-resources; to establish postgraduate students’ perception towards libraries; and to establish the effect of satisfaction with e-resources on perception of university libraries. Most postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries is inappropriate. This is attributed to users experience and satisfaction which they have had with e-resources. It adopted a descriptive survey research design in sampling 116 postgraduate students and 4 library staff using simple random sampling and purposive sampling methods respectively. Primary data was collected through online questionnaires and interview guides. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis. The results revealed that satisfaction with e-resources had a significant correlation with perception of university libraries. An R squared of 0.415 was found, implying that satisfaction with e-resources accounts for 42% of variations in perception of libraries by postgraduate students. The study concluded that satisfaction with e-resources has a statistically significant influence on postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries. The implication is that satisfaction with e-resources is a critical determinant of postgraduate students’ perception of university libraries. The university library management needs to strengthen the satisfaction related aspects such as friendliness, professionalism, communication, reliability, and timeliness, which seem to be strong drivers of perception.