In an effort to boost student data capture for higher transition and completion rates, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology conducted a one-day Validation Workshop for its Deans and Chairpersons of Departments (CODs). The Workshop, which took place on Monday, 17th March, 2025 at the Golf Hotel-Kakamega, was organized by the Division of Academic and Student Affairs. It aimed at sensitizing the participants on the relevance of effective student data capture, as well as analyzing the transition and completion rates of each School for the period 2017-2023. The event, graced by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)-Prof. Peter Bukhala, attracted participation from other key sections including, Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (PME), Quality Assurance, Strategic Planning and the Dean of Students.
In his presentation on ‘Data Knowledge in University Governance’, Prof. Bukhala stated that data knowledge involves understanding and utilizing various forms of data, such as student performance metrics, faculty research output, financial records, and operational statistics, to drive efficiency, accountability and strategic planning. “Data knowledge plays a crucial role in modern University governance, enabling institutions to make informed decisions, enhance operational efficiency and improve academic outcomes. The integration of data-driven strategies in governance helps Universities optimize resource allocation, support student success, and maintain transparency,” said Prof. Bukhala.
A section of participants follows keenly.
“Accurate data capture is important as it ensures informed decision-making by the University and other education stakeholders. Wrong data to these stakeholders may affect general decision-making processes, planning and allocation of resources,” pointed out the Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Judah Ndiku.
Speaking during the official closing of the Workshop, the Director-PME, Comm. Prof. Joseph Nasongo noted that the event provided an opportunity for the Deans and CODs to reflect on how MMUST students transition, right from their entry into the University up to graduation. “As a University that envisions 100% undergraduate and postgraduate completion rates, I hope that the recommendations made in this Workshop will be worked on and implemented,” he added.
Dr. Isaac K’Owino makes a presentation during the Workshop.
The Coordinator Institutional Research-Dr. Isaac K’Owino took the participants through critical data capture essentials that contribute towards student completion rates, staff professional development and institutional ranking. “I encourage every Department and School to deliberately track their postgraduate students and ensure that they deal with the backlog in the system. This will not only enhance postgraduate student completion rates, but also propel the University towards positive growth and enviable global positioning, both in academics and research. So far, data capture shows that MMUST has an attractive student enrollment, which currently stands at 24,000. Let us all do everything in our power to ensure that all the students graduate in record time,” remarked Dr. K’Owino.
Notably, the climax of the Workshop was a plenary session, where panelists discussed factors ranging from social to academic issues that affect student completion rates. Certainly, enhanced use of predictive analytics to identify students who may be at risk of dropping out, will help the University build a strong community. This will enable learners to feel connected and supported, hence increasing commitment to their courses.
By Wangari Wambugu and Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
