Abstract: In an era where traditional cybersecurity measures are increasingly inadequate against the growing sophistication and volume of digital threats, banks are compelled to adopt innovative technologies such as AI. The study explored the adoption and effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based strategies for data protection among banking institutions in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya. The present study employed surveys and interviews to investigate the integration of AI tools, particularly machine learning algorithms for fraud detection, predictive analytics, and anomaly detection in selected banking institutions. The study revealed that all surveyed banks (100%) had adopted AI-based security systems, with 68.6% focusing on fraud prevention and 66.7% on anomaly detection. A statistically significant relationship (p < 0.001) was observed between strong data protection policies and firms’ integration of AI in security frameworks. The adoption of AI was driven by its capacity to predict threats, enhance fraud detection, and improve operational efficiency. Despite these benefits, the study identified significant challenges, including a shortage of skilled professionals for AI system implementation and persistent concerns regarding data privacy. Additionally, existing regulatory frameworks were deemed insufficient to address emerging risks associated with AI-driven data security. Most respondents acknowledged that the advantages of AI outweighed its challenges, making it a preferred solution for enhancing data protection. The study concludes that AI enhances data security in the banking sector and recommends strengthened regulatory frameworks, increased investment in specialized AI training, and continuous stakeholder engagement to maximize AI’s potential in the cybersecurity landscape.

Abstract: The increasing use of digital technologies has transformed how educational institutions communicate with potential students. However, a limited attention has been made to examine how social media marketing strategies influence student enrollment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of social media marketing strategies on student enrollment in TVET institutions. The study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by Davis (1989). A convergent parallel mixed methods design was adopted, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population comprised 1,430 trainees and 12 principals from 12 TVET institutions in Uasin Gishu County. A sample size of 264 trainees was determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) formula, while four institutions were selected through simple random sampling, and principals were purposively selected. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Validity was ensured through expert judgment and pilot testing, while reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficients above 0.7. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation analysis with SPSS version 25, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study established a positive and significant correlation (r = .598, p < .01) between social media marketing and student enrollment. It concluded that active use of social media enhances institutional visibility and attracts more students. The study recommends that TVET institutions adopt structured, interactive, and targeted social media marketing strategies to improve enrollment rates.

Abstract: The introduction of Competency-Based Education (CBE) model in Kenya is one of the key efforts by the Kenya government to prepare learners to be competitive in the job market after graduation by providing a practical based skill other than theoretical based knowledge. The teaching of Kiswahili under CBE focuses on learner-centered, interactive, and hands-on pedagogy. However, limited access to relevant resources undermines the successful rollout of this curriculum. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of instructional materials, their effect on lesson planning, student participation, and the extent of variation between urban and rural schools. An integrated-method strategy was employed, incorporating numerical questionnaires and descriptive discussions. The sample consisted of 90 Kiswahili teachers, 20 school managers, and 10 Curriculum Support Officers from urban and rural schools. Data were gathered through Organized survey forms, discussion guides, and resource lists were used. Numerical information was examined through summary statistics, whereas non-numerical data was subjected to pattern-based evaluation using NVivo software. The results indicated severe shortages of CBE-aligned textbooks, digital content, and teachers’ guides, especially in rural schools. These shortages had an adverse impact on lesson delivery and student involvement. The study concludes that insufficient resources are a significant hindrance to the equitable teaching of Kiswahili. It recommends fair resource allocation, investment in ICT, development of multimedia content, and support for teachers to improve CBE implementation and language education quality.

Hesborn, M. N. Kodero – Department of Educational Psychology, Rongo University, Kenya

Shadrack O. Ogoma – Department of Educational Psychology, Moi University, Kenya

Email: aggykbush@yahoo.com

Abstract: Adolescent sexual behaviour remains a pressing concern in Kenya, with increasing reports of early sexual debut, unintended pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections among school-going youth. Despite numerous interventions, the role of gender in shaping these behaviours remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the interaction ef ect of adolescents’ gender on their sexual behaviours in public secondary schools in Uasin Gishu County. A descriptive survey research design was adopted with a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach (QUANqual). The target population comprised 27,773 students in Form 2 and Form 3, from which a sample of 394 was drawn using Slovene’s formula. Stratified and proportionate simple random sampling was used to select students, while purposive sampling identified 17 teacher counsellors. Data was collected using structured questionnaires for students and interview guides for teacher counselors. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (ANOVA), while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Findings revealed no significant main ef ect of gender on adolescent sexual behaviour, F(1, 310) = 0.04, p = .842, η² < .001. Descriptive statistics showed similar mean scores between male (M = 20.24) and female (M = 20.36) adolescents, indicating minimal gender disparity in reported behaviours. Qualitative responses supported these findings, noting a shift from traditional gender norms. The study concluded that gender no longer plays a distinct role in influencing adolescent sexual behaviour in the study area. The study recommended that there is a need to enhance comprehensive sexuality education, promote open adolescent-parent communication, develop gender-neutral counselling interventions, and strengthen school-based support systems.

Everlyne Chebet – Department Of Early Childhood Education, Kisii University

Ismael N. Joseph – Department of Psychology and Early Childhood Education Kisii University

Email: gmainangugi@gmail.com

Abstract: This study examines the impact of movement activities on psychomotor skill development in early childhood learners. Conducted in Kesses sub-county, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, the research follows Friedrich Froebel’s theory of play (1987). A descriptive research design was used, with a population comprising headteachers, ECDE teachers, and curriculum support officers (CSOs), totaling 410 participants. A sample size was determined using the Yamane formula, resulting in 176 primary school teachers, 18 headteachers, and 4 CSOs. Random sampling was used for teachers and headteachers, while purposive sampling selected CSOs. Data was collected using questionnaires for teachers and interview guides for headteachers and CSOs. Reliability was ensured through test-retest and Cronbach Alpha Coefficient, with a coefficient of 0.70 indicating high dependability. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 25, and qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed a positive significant relationship between movement activities and psychomotor skills development (r = 0.229). The study concluded that the implementation of movement activities in Kesses sub-county was relatively low. The researcher recommends that stakeholders address the low levels of psychomotor skills development in early childhood education, with teachers providing age-appropriate activities. The findings are valuable for headteachers, teachers, the community, sponsors, and policymakers in developing movement activity policies for early learners.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to establish the relationship between tax reform initiatives and employee Job Satisfaction in The County Government of Uasin Gishu. The study employed a cross-sectional research design, utilizing questionnaire and interview schedule. Data was collected from employees and human resource officers in various departments in the County Government of Uasin Gishu. The target population for the study involved 931 public sector employees. A sample size of 136 employees was obtained using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sample size formulae. The respondents’ distribution was done ensuring representation from various departments in the county government of Uasin Gishu. Further, 8 human resource officers were selected from all the departments making a total of 144 respondents. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages and inferential statistics such as correlation analysis to assess the relationships between tax policies and employee job satisfaction. Qualitative data from interviews was presented thematically in line with objective of the study. The study established a significant positive correlation between tax reform initiatives and employee job satisfaction in the Uasin Gishu County Government, with a majority of employees perceiving these reforms as beneficial in simplifying compliance and reducing their tax burdens. However, some employees expressed concerns about the potential negative impact on their disposable income, indicating a need for ongoing communication and support to address these apprehensions. The findings of this study will contribute to the understanding of how tax policies impact employee job satisfaction in the public sector in Uasin Gishu County Government, Kenya.

Received June 11, 2020; Revised June 19, 2020; Accepted June 21, 2020

Abstract: Children’s early development and learning are influenced by various systems that including the micro system (e.g., school financial capability), meso system (e.g., Government-school partnership), exo system (e.g., community type, early education policies), and macro system (e.g., school culture). Given the need of early education studies, the study focused on choice of instructional resources by the teacher’s in the short term and in the long term, the study determined the influence of teachers in children’s early learning outcome, with a particular focus on teachers’ perceptions on availability of
instructional resources. Based on data collected using self-administered questionnaires from 341 Early Child Development Education (ECDE) teachers, the findings indicated that teachers had no access to overhead projectors, television and radio, DVDs and CDs, internet, computers, online databases and mobile phones instructional technologies. The implication for policy the government should prescribe the minimum resources available for use by preschool teachers in ECDE centers countrywide to ensure that all preschool children are afforded a quality start to education.