Analysis of the impact of strikes on student’s in public universities: a case study of Makerere University School of Statistics and Planning

Abstract

This study aimed at establishing the impact of strikes on students in public universities using Makerere University as a case study. Specifically, the study intended to find out the impact of strikes on student’s performance in Makerere University, the impact of strikes on student learning in Makerere University and assess the effect of strikes on the dropout rates among students in Makerere University. The study was conducted in Makerere University among students of the School of Statistics and Planning. A sample size of 100 students determined by stratified sampling and calculated using Cochran’s Formula was used. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire designed using google forms and analysed using STATA on three levels i.e. univariate, bivariate and multivariate stages. Accrding to the study findings, strikes had a significant effect on student academic performance (p=0.006). Strikes also had a significant impact on student interactions with their lecturers (p=0.046) and student discussions (p=0.001). The study concluded that strikes have a negative impact on the academic performance of students and student learning. The study recommended that the association leaders (staff and students) should always consider peaceful talks and demonstrations before opting for disruptive strikes that disorganizes the entire university environment, management should prioritize the key stakeholders i.e. staff and students for these are the ones who keep the university meaningful. Therefore, their grievances should be addressed in the best way possible, the law authorities like police should tighten the security to prevent vandalism of university and student property by the violent demonstrators and that further research should be conducted on the causes of these strikes in public universities and the effects of strikes in private universities.