Research and Publications

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Assessing the optimal inflation rate for the Kenyan economy
(Strathmore University, 2) Auma, Laura
This study seeks to estimate the optimal level of inflation for the Kenyan economy that is favorable for its economic growth by using time-series dataset for the period 1981 to 2014. The study adopts a model proposed by Ademola & Aiwo (2006) to examine the existence of threshold level effects in the inflation-growth relationship. The estimated model suggests a 4 percent optimal level of inflation above which inflation retards economic growth.
Effect of security mechanisms on the performance of wireless local area network.
(Strathmore University, 9) Otieno, Evans Meyo
Wireless networks gain their popularity and fame by providing users with several advantages in accessing information. WLANs provide true mobility and flexibility to users. Another advantage of wireless technology is installation. A physical or cable connection is no longer needed because a single connection to the access point via electromagnetic waves is all that is necessary. This both decreases installation costs and allows wireless networks to be installed in locations where previously it would have been difficult or impossible to install wiring. Such benefits and advantages bring up some security and performance problems. It is imperative to understand the impact of the security mechanisms on the performance of the network. However, the establishment of a trade-off between security and network performance is often neglected. The aim of the research is to quantify the impact of the security mechanisms on the performance of a network. To investigate the effect of multiple security mechanisms on the performance of multi-congested and uncongested networks. The performance effect on different TCP and UDP packet size distributions on secure networks is also studies. The results prove that the security mechanisms affect the network performance in different ways and the more secure the network is, the lower the performance is. The results provide ways in which to configure wireless networks such that security requirements can be met in relation to quantifiable performance impact in practical situations
Issues and challenges in implementing quality assurance in higher education
(Strathmore university, 2003) ; Gatei, Muchira; Sevilla, Joseph
This paper deals with the issues and challenges facing the successful implementation of a QMS in an educational institution, namely, Strathmore University. It looks at the various steps followed to implement QMS in the University. Strathmore University (SU) decided to implement a quality assurance system in early 2003 to ensure excellence in the pursuit of its objectives. In the development of her strategic plan, the University identified the need to institute a QMS to ensure adherence to quality along the expansion path. It was a means of entrenching a systematic approach to quality management in both its administrative and academic functions. Ideally, the QMS should guarantee adherence to the University’s processes and procedures. The process of QMS entails various steps including the decision to implement quality assurance, making of quality related choices, educating staff, constituting the implementation team, defining statements, policies and processes, documentation, internal audit training and the audit process, certification and QMS monitoring and growth. The paper discusses the various challenges encountered in the steps of the QMS process. It further looks at positive and negative aspects of each step as well as the measures taken to overcome them. In conclusion, an understanding of the issues and challenges at each step of QMS implementations allows for suitable preventive and correcting actions to achieve optimal performance over time. Our conclusion would be of high interest to other local and regional universities who have decided to implement a QMS.
Creating a spiration of love in freedom for personal growth (Kenya)
(Dublin City University, 2006) Dean, Catherine Anne
My doctoral research presents my self-enquiry as an Irishwoman who has lived and worked in Ireland and Italy for over thirty five years. This context throws light on my life and practice in Kenya over the last nine years. I then focus more specifically on the evolution of my work with staff and students at Strathmore University in this time span. Through my research I show how I have sought to understand the meaning of my life and practice in greater depth while trying to improve my teaching practice at Strathmore University. I express my new knowledge in my living educational theory and show how my work contributes to the knowledge base of practitioner research. I employ a methodology which I developed using elements of a living educational theory approach which embraces values and diverse forms of meaningful representation such as personal reflective narrative, autoethnography, intellectual representation and visual narrative. I use philosophical and theological reflection and analysis to explain the deeper meaning of the values that emerge in the course of my research as well as in the explanation of my living educational theory. I provide evidence of my contributions to knowledge using feedback from students, colleagues, friends and family members. I present the living values which give meaning to my life and practice as creating a spiration of love, in freedom, for personal growth. This expression illustrates how I understand these values as an analogical mirroring of the free flow of love among the Divine Persons of the Blessed Trinity as I explain in my living theory.
Oval slides in triangular spaces? Anchoring national human rights institutions in ‘tripartite’ Commonwealth Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2006) Ambani, John Osogo
"Montesquieu, in L'Esprit des Lois, 1748, divided the functions of state into: the legislative power, the executive power, and the power of judging. Indeed, three constitutional organs have invariably dominated state power. These are: the executive, the leigslative and the judiciary. According to Montesquieu, the state is said to be at 'equilibrium' when the three organs are independent of each other, with each carrying out its functions without interference. Ideally, the legislative organ ought to make laws, the executive to implement them, and the judiciary to adjudicate over disputes arising out of the day-to-day operations of the state. This attempt at dispersing state power is not arbitrary. It has got ends. One cardinal end in this regrad is the protection of fundamental human rights. It has been argued that where the three organs of state are allowed operatational autonomy, individuals stand to enjoy relatively profound liberty. Where state functions are entrusted with one person or organ, the tyranny of that person or organ is certain to overwhelm the realisation of fundamental freedoms and liberties. ... Both Montesquieu and Lock had tremendous faith in the tripartite government structure in so far as the protection of liberties was concerned. Informed by this philosophy, most democratic constitutions have weaved state power in almost similar terms envisioned by Montesquieu. Thus far, the 1787 Constitution of the United States of America (USA) could be ranked as one with the clearest distinction of state functions. Contemporary practice, however, appears to be in favour of complementing these traditional state organs, a sign, perhaps, that the conventional three organs of state per se have increasingly proved inadequate; at least in the sphere of human rights protection. There is a move, or rather, wave towards the establishment of independent national human rights institutions (NHRIs) to reinforce the bulwark of human rights protection mechanisms at state level, and the wave, arguably, is most pronounced in Africa. ... The current investigation will be completed in four distinct chapters. The current chapter serves well to introduce the study. The second chapter constitutes a comprehensive study of the conceptual foundations of national human rights institutions (NHRIs). The essence, structure and nature of NHRIs is also explored. The third chapter proposes to analyse the doctrine of separation of powers from a philosophical and later, from a practical point of view as it manifests itself in the Commonwealth tradition. The tripartite government configuration is discussed with the ramification of NHRIs in mind. It is instructive that without assessing the parent concept (the rule of law) a discussion on separation of powers remains orphaned. The fourth chapter shall first allude to the new challenges to human rights enforcement. It shall then discuss how these challenges and the development of NHRIs cry for a new thinking on the original tripartite system. The final section is an attempt at supplying a panacea to the challenges accentuated by the preceding part."
A Copula-based approach to differential gene expression analysis
(Strathmore University, 2006) Chaba, Linda Akoth
Microarray technology has revolutionized genomic studies by enabling the study of differential expression of thousands of genes simultaneously. The main objective in microarray experiments is to identify a panel of genes that are associated with a disease outcome or trait. In this thesis, we develop and evaluate a semi-parametric copula-based algorithm for gene selection that does not depend on the distributions of the covariates, except that their marginal distributions are continuous. A comparison of the developed method with the existing methods is done based on power to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and control of Type I error rate via a simulation study. Simulations indicate that the copula-based model has a reasonable power in selecting differentially expressed gene and has a good control of Type I error rate. These results are validated in a publicly available melanoma dataset. The copula-based approach turns out to be useful in finding genes that are clinically important. Relaxing parametric assumptions on microarray data may yield procedures that have good power for differential gene expression analysis.
An Assessment of the role of teaching and support staff in maintenance of resources: a case of Majengo secondary school, Bondo district, Nyanza province in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2007) Othieno, Indira Ogonjo
Provision of appropriate resources is essential in running a successful school. These resources are important for the implementation of the school curriculum. There is need to have them maintained for continuous use. This study was therefore aimed at assessing the role of the teaching and support staff in the process of maintaining the resources that they use. The assessment was done by use of questionnaires for the staff and interview schedule for the staff and interview schedule for the head teacher. The study targeted Majengo Secondary School in Bondo District of Nyanza Province.The sampling technique used m this study was purposive sampling. The data were analysed by developing frequency distribution and tabulating responses and percentages were used in drawing conclusions from data. From the study, it was clear that the staff participated slightly in maintaining the resources. It also came out clearly that they are not satisfied with role they are allowed to play. The study further recommended that the staff could be more involved in the process by being given enough resources to use. Their views should also be considered when making changes. They also suggested the use of a maintenance form. The study finally made suggestions for further research based on the findings.
Electricity production from energy plantations : results from a feasibility and impact scoping study in Northern Uganda for a 50 MWe grid model
(European Biomass Conference, 2007) DaSilva, Izael; Buchholz, Thomas; Tennigkeit, Timm; Timothy A., Volk
Uganda currently faces an electricity crisis due to high fossil fuel prices and falling levels of lake Victoria affecting hydro power capacities. In this paper, we introduce a feasibility study for a 50 MW biomass fired power plant covering plantation design, conversion technology, environmental and social impacts, anticipated problems, overall economics, project status, and benefits of the project. The 30,000 ha project area consists mainly of Eucalyptus and native Markhamia lutea stands. Results indicate that this project can provide electricity to a competitive price which is considerably lower than generated by fossil fuel powered generators.
Investing in wireless communications: POPOTE wireless case
(Strathmore University, 2007) Muthi, Edwin
Landlines are very much in demand as they are cost effective. Due to the difficulties experienced in obtaining landlines in the past, many Kenyans rely on mobile phones for their communication needs. This is where the Popote services come in handy. This paper presents how Popote Wireless filled in a niche and took advantage of this lucrative communication business.
Mobile phone voting using blind signature protocol
(Strathmore University, 2008) Olembo, Maureen
This project presents a generic secure electronic voting scheme for mobile phones, based on teh work of Y. Feng S Ng and S. Schwiderski-Grosche (2005), which can be implemented in contexts that require secure casting of votes such as parliamentary and national elections. The voting scheme presented is secured by use of the blind signature protocol and public key encryption. The security property of voter verification, democracy, voter anonymity and privacy, integrity and availability are achieved. Finally an analysis and design of a mobile phone voting system using the blind signature protocol is undertaken, and a simulation developed and presented.
A Framework for optimizing internet bandwidth utilization a kenyan perspective
(Strathmore University, 2008) Thaba, Davidson Njathi
The cost of internet bandwidth in Kenya, just like in other developing countries, is significantly high compared to the developed countries. The challenge of this research is to look at ways of making the most optimal use of the available bandwidth and improve performance in terms of reduced latency and better download speeds. In this dissertation, we investigate various techniques that can be used to optimize the utilization of the limited and expensive international bandwidth in developing countries. We look at the effects that content distribution networks (CDNs) and cache servers have o international bandwidth utilization as well as latency. A model of determining the point at which a content distribution network would be cost-effective is formulated. We also look at the variation in latency for content that is found within the CDNs as opposed to the origin servers. We have explored on the effect of local peering at internet exchange points and developed a model to determine the financial break-even point at which it makes a commercial sense for an ISP to join the internet exchange point in Kenya. We analyze the suitability of peering and transit models of internet exchange points as it applies to local Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Peering and transit models for inter-ISP traffic exchange are studied and we show the comparative difference each has on latency in accessing local content. Noting that spam e-mails and viruses consume a significant amount of bandwidth, we explore the effect of content filtering of that junk at the upstream Internet backbone providers. We develop a model that local ISPs can use to determine the point at which it is cost effective to invest i a spam filtering solution located at a data center within the upstream internet backbone provider. We analyze trends in internet bandwidth utilization and note that many organizations have very low utilization at night - traffic analysis and prioritization can ensure that less critical and bandwidth-hungry applications can make good use of this "night bandwidth" We argue that as framework that combines each of these techniques would result in a significant reduction on the costs incurred by Internet Service Providers to pay for international transit bandwidth, a cost that they pass directly to the local end users. We look at the metrics that can be used to determine the optimal point of introducing each of thee bandwidth saving techniques. Data collected from a local ISP has been used to validate this framework. This demonstrates that such a framework can indeed provide significant savings on international bandwidth costs and at the same time improve the user experience. Internet service providers implementing such a frame work would ultimately be able to pass the cost saving benefits to their clients.
A Secure M-payment for M-commerce in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2008) Ananda, Fanon Tumaini
There has been a tremendous growth in mobile communications in Kenya over the last decade that has totally transformed how people communicate. This has presented opportunities for business to change how they operate, which includes banking services, whose infrastructure in Kenya is fairly advanced in comparison to neighbouring countries. Despite the advanced banking services available, account holders do still have problems of secure access in their transactions, especially using mobile devices. This research proposes an M-commerce model for a direct, trusted access to a client’s bank accounts via mobile devices. The methodology used for the research is based on the WebE process for M-commerce services and applications. In its implementation, it adopts a secure M-payment configuration based on a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for mobile devices. Further, it implements security issues through elliptic curve data signing algorithm. It should be noted that for a mobile system, it is important to implement a solution that is secure, relies on the available communication channels and works efficiently with the minimal resources available, a characteristic of mobile devices. The implementation enables the mobile device to act as a debit card and can be customized to implement security in any other transactions that utilize mobile device applications.
An Investigation of the factors that influence Staffroom culture and its impact on the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education Performance: a case study of Kianda School
(Strathmore University, 2008) Mikui, Josephine
Teachers play a key role in the development of a country. Teaching is the essential profession, the one that makes all other professions possible. Well qualified, caring and committed teachers are needed in order to ensure that our children are prepared for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in future.The role of the teaching staff is emphasized by Karugu (1986:7) who notes:'Reformers may build schools, make changes in structure and the curricular, recommend and prescribe methods or aids but in the end, everything will depend on the teachers who will be responsible for applying them. ' The morale and effectiveness of a teacher is influenced by the kind of culture he/she finds in the staffroom. This encompasses the way of carrying out teaching and non-teaching duties, the way of relating with one another, attitude towards administration and also the manner in which students are handled. Ultimately all these is likely to impact on students' performance.The performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) in Kianda School has been on the decline for the last three years. The mean score has been going down as a result of poor performance in some of the subjects. It has been noted that working relations and teamwork between teachers within some subject panels such as Science and Mathematics has also been deteriorating. A negative culture among the staff had begun to develop.The purpose of this study was to assess the culture in terms of the relationship the teachers have among themselves and how they perceive the school administration.The study sought to establish if the leadership style contributed to the staffroom culture and also to verify if there was a connection between the staffroom culture and students' performance.
A Software upgrades investment model : a case of Windows operating system in Kenya.
(Strathmore University, 2008) Metto, Shadrack Kimutai
The revolution of software has introduced new actors and market mechanisms. Effective software management is crucial for development and survival of any company. IT upgrades investment in a crucial part in software management. The investments are usually costly and risky. Firms tend to treat such costs as operating expenses within the period incurred. Waiting too long may lead to lost competence, relevance and may prohibit a business from taking advantage of better vendor technologies in future, more so putting the company at risk by increasing the gap with the suitable business technology and business leadership opportunities. There are some factors which are critical in influencing the threshold point of change namely : acquisition and installation cost, change management (training and support), cost and opportunity cost. In context of both software and hardware upgrades, this project develops a simplified algorithm and tests its validity using data acquired from the Kenyan market to determine when is the appropriate time to upgrade where all costs are at minimum. The project focuses on study of Windows operating system.
Information security awareness in the kenyan aviation industry
(Strathmore University, 2008) Muendo, Daniel
People have always been an important factor in securing the information technology environment. They need to be made aware of its importance, as well as what their role is in securing information assets. Despite the widespread acceptance of t his fact many organizations still lack knowledge of information security threats caused by humans and levels of information security awareness. This research project tackles the human issues affecting information security in aviation industry and levels of information security in employees of the organizations here in Kenya. More specifically, this research provides the following : a comprehensive view of the human related information security threats, a discussion of ; a descriptive interpretive data revealing information technology manager’s perceptions about information security issues; a discussion of the level of information security awareness of employees in the aviation industry. From the results, an evaluation model for information’s security awareness is developed based on the areas of ISO/IEC 17799-2005 The research in this study suggests that there are two primary results which are shown here. The first is that leadership is elementary to the eventual effectiveness of security and the role played by an information security culture in an organization which influences the security policy and basis of information security awareness.
A GIS decision based model for determining the best path for connection to a power distribution network a case study of Kenya power and lighting company limited
(Strathmore University, 2008) Kinuthia, Augustine Muturi
The purpose of this study is to present a GIS based decision model for determining the best path for connection to a power distribution network. The model was derived from studies that consider the design of the power distribution system and the GIS field of network analysis along with the method used by KPLC for connecting premises to the distribution network. A digital map of the study area and the distribution network was generated and taking into account the distributors and distribution transformers the best path between the premises and the transformer was derived. In this study it is demonstrated that the distributors’ length and size and the distribution transformers’ capacity, load and location influence the connection of premises to the distribution network. The results also show that combining geospatial methods with the power distribution network enables engineers to visualize the spatial distribution of data in maps which yields better insight into the nature of the power distribution network.
An Evaluation of the administration of continuous tests and examinations: a case study of the Victor's school Nairobi
(Strathmore University, 2008) Omondi, Sarah Anzazi
This research project is a descriptive case study that takes an in-depth analysis of the administration of continuous tests and examinations at The Victor's School, a private primary school situated in South 'C' in Langata Division in Nairobi. The purpose of this study was be to evaluate the manner in which continuous tests and examinations are administered at The Victor's School and point out the issues arising out of the current system in place in order to form a basis for formulation of a comprehensive regulations and policy guideline document for the administration of continuous tests and examinations at the school,and to inform teachers of the expected standard.Administration of continuous tests and examinations is a very crucial issue in the Kenyan system of primary level education, the 8.4.4. Curriculum. Tests and measurement provide the teacher with data on the teaching-learning process , and especially on students' diagnosis of learning disabilities of past failures , of present weakness , the detection of mastery , of competence, of the acquisition and possession of the skills, knowledge and creativity.In this study, a complete enumeration of the subjects was done as the teaching staff was small. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected using a questionnaires and structured interviews to selected staff members. The data obtained was analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, frequency tables and content analysis using Microsoft word.The results obtained showed that teachers felt the assessments were not given the seriousness they deserved. Various issues were raised such as arguments for and against subject teachers setting exams for their students verse out-sourcing for exams , regularization of tests to fortnightly , and the need for teachers to be more strict with pupils' adherence of exams rules.
A framework for evaluating ICT use in teacher education A case study of the primary teacher training colleges in Kenya
(Strathmore University, 2008) Otieno, Oredo John
Teachers are under increasing pressure to use Information and Communication Technology to impart to students the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to survive in the 21st Century. The teaching profession needs to migrate from a teacher centered lecture based instruction, to a student-centered interactive learning environment. To attain this aspiration, an ICT enabled teacher education is fundamental. Towards this end, international and national authorities have been spending huge amounts of money to facilitate the implementation of ICT teacher education. This work attempts to evaluate the ueage of the available ICT facilities in Kenyan Public primary teacher colleges focusing ion the quantity of computer use,and the levels attained in terms of using ICT's support.
An Assessment of maintenance of physical and environmental resource and strategies for improvement. a case of Rae girls school Nyando District
(Strathmore University, 2008) Olueya, George O.
The main problem of this study is that despite the crucial role of maintenance in enhancing durability and use or physical; and environmental resources, performance of maintenance in schools has been quite dismal. Overriding factors resulting to this dismal performance of physical and environmental resources have not been adequately investigated and clearly understood therefore inhibiting an elaborate and continuous maintenance plan for schools. In this regard the purpose or this study was to understand and assess the current state of maintenance or physical and environmental resources and to detail action strategies for improvement in a selected secondary school, Rae Girls Secondary, lower Nyakach division, Nyando District,Nyanza province. This is an action research ·focusing of Rae Girls Secondary School, the researcher’s station of work. Another neighboring school was also studied for purposes of comparison. Views on further improvement of maintenance were also sought. Prom the sample school about 140 students \ivcrc selected from form I - IV. Data was collected using a questionnaire fi·om the head teacher, teachers and students. A questionnaire was also administered on the 'head teacher of a neighboring school to provide information that can be used for comparison. Semi-structured interview schedules were administered on the bursar, maintenance staffs and the driver as well as the storekeeper. Focused group discussion was used ;md involved the researcher and first group and second groups. In the group discussion views on maintenance of physical and environmental resources was sought and they contributed immensely on what improvement should be made. An observation checklist was also used to investigate and assess the current state and type of maintenance carried out. The researcher also used unwritten evidence by focusing on the appearance of building classrooms, furniture, textbooks and other vital facilities. Also the researcher used existing clues, carried out investigation and inspected the classes, desks, chairs, floors and walls by looking for signs or breakage of glass windows, furniture, graffiti or writings on the walls. Data was collected and analyzed using a descriptive case study approach in accordance with the research questions and objectives. The current state of maintenance was ar1alyzed and examined vis-a-vis the financial and human resources available. Plans for improvements have also been highlighted alongside the available maintenance resources and plans.
An exploratory comparison of business leadership in Irish and Kenyan successful managers.
(Strathmore University, 2008) D'Souza , Fina; Byrne, Gabriel
The aim of this study was to benchmark Kenyan management against Irish management. Recent trends in cross cultural global business have shown that the managers’ role has become more complex in the context of business performance, than it has been in the past. Personal values of people in general form an important part of character and therefore a deeper analysis of managers’ personal values seems warranted. The paper compares the personal values of successful Kenyan and Irish managers with a view to discussing the role played by managers’ personal values in the current global business environment. The data of successful managers from both countries has been used in the study. The study gives a brief overview of the academic literature on personal values and value theory. It also makes an evaluation of leadership and outlines the relationship between leadership and personal values, as well as the effect of leadership on the performance of firms. The findings from the data received from both groups are then reported. Two methods of scholarship were used in the study, namely, the work of Schwartz and Personal Values and the Gravesian levels or Memes. Using the Colour Code approach of Graves’ work, observations were made on Kenyan and Irish managers. The paper draws conclusions of comparison between Irish and Kenyan managers and the implications of this comparison are discussed. The implications for further study have been stated.

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