Total Quality Management Practices and Performance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutions in Nairobi

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of total quality management practices and performance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions in Nairobi. Four research objectives of this study were; to assess the implementation of TQM in TVET institutions, to determine the TQM practices of TVET institutions, to indicate the barriers to TQM implementation in the institutions and to determine the relationship between TQM practices and performance of TVET institutions. The study used descriptive research design. The target population was 151 TVET institutions in Nairobi, out of 151 institutions only 125 returned dully filled questionnaires producing a response rate of 83 percent. A census survey was done on all the registered TVET institutions. Primary data was collected using questionnaires. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive statistics with the use of SPSS and presented through the percentages, frequencies, mean, standard deviations and regression analysis. It was also clear that there was a significant relationship between Total Quality Management Practices and Performance represented by R2, 75.6%, which translates to 75.6% variation in the performance explained by all the independent variables. The findings of the study revealed that employee involvement and communication positively influence implementation of TQM. The findings also revealed that continuous improvement and customer focus are critical factors in the implementation of TQM. The study recommended that Institutions train their employees on quality management concepts and they should be conducted at all levels of the institution. Secondly, the study recommends management to develop communication systems that allow easy flow of quality information at all levels. Thirdly, the study recommends institutions to develop appropriate continuous programs that allow quality at all levels of the institution. Lastly, the study recommends that the institutions customer focus and management should be developed with all members of staff to ensure quality is achieved. The study suggested that: - further studies are done on the same area but with a focus on public and private universities. Further studies may be done to establish critical success factors that influence the performance of the institutions, highlighting the stumbling blocks and hindrances to effective TQM practices implementation.