Analysis of the determinants that affect the selection of hostel lodging by Makerere University students: a case study of the School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University

Abstract

The choice of a hostel plays a pivotal role in shaping the university experience for students of Makerere University, as it directly impacts their social interactions, academic performance, and personal well-being. By understanding the key influencers in the decision-making process, both prospective and current students can make informed choices that align with their preferences and contribute to a fulfilling university life. Hostel lodging is a supervised living-learning residential structure consisting of shared housing facilities and amenities for occupants who use it. Hostel accommodation is a substantive component of universities and contributes to growth and development of students' academic pursuit. Therefore, there is need for students to carefully select a hostel. This dissertation aims at establishing the significant factors influencing Makerere University students' choice of hostel. The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey utilizing a multi-stage sampling technique that consisted of both probability and non- probability sampling methods. Data was collected by means of structured questionnaires that were administered to 108 third year undergraduate students at School of Statistics and Planning in the selected hostels. The data retrieved was subjected to univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis with the aid of STATA version 15. Findings revealed that security, a calm and peaceful environment, reading room facility and gender of the students were the four significant factors that influence hostel choice of Makerere University students. By determining what is important to students when choosing a hostel, this current study will help the University housing administrators as well as private investors in effective planning of student housing around the University. The study recommended that hostel administrators and students themselves should make security a top most priority in hostel service provision and selection respectively, hostels should also provide both reading rooms and common rooms to students, and male students especially first year students should be sensitized more about hostel life so as to achieve a winwin situation where investors make profits from their investments and students enjoy their stay while at campus