Recruitment and Selection Practices in Kenyan Public Universities
View/ Open
Date
2013-10Author
Mesesi, Catherine N
Type
ThesisLanguage
enMetadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Recruitment and selection is one of the most important parts of HR. The effective
recruitment and selection of employees is a fundamental HRM activity, one that if
managed well can have a significant impact on organizational performance as well as lead
to a more positive organizational image. This study sought to determine the recruitment
and selection practices in public universities. A cross sectional survey was used. Data was
collected using questionnaires targeting an administrative officer in charge of human
resources in all the twenty two Kenyan public universities. The respondents were asked
questions regarding the recruitment and selection practices in the public universities as well
as the presence of the recruitment and selection policies. The response rate was excellent as
nearly all the questionnaires were filled and returned. Data analysis was done using
measures of central tendencies such as mean and standard deviation. The study indicated
that all the public universities have a recruitment policy whereas half of them agreed to
have the selection policy. The study findings indicated that external advertisement and
internal recruitment practices are used to a large extent. The internet, transfers, headhunting
and referrals are used to a less extent. Employment agencies are rarely used. The study also
indicated that panel interviews are used at a very large extent. Short listing and one on one
interview are used to a large extent. Pre employment medical examination is used to some
extent. Sequenced interviews, internet based selection, assessment centres and background
checks are only used to a less extent. The research revealed that university policy or
practice on recruiting and selection was based on several practices; the first is analysis of
the various departments to find out if there are vacancies to be filled. However, it was
noted that the Kenyan public universities do not vary the recruitment and selection
practices they use. It was also revealed that some Kenyan public universities do not have a
selection policy. Those that have the selection policy, at times deviate from the formal
process. It is recommended that the Kenyan public universities should consider varying the
recruitment and selection practices. The public universities are further advised to have a
well structured selection policy which should be adhered to.
Citation
Degree of Masters of Business AdministrationPublisher
University of Nairobi School of Business
Description
A research project submitted in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for the award of the degree
of master of business administration (MBA) school
of business, university of Nairobi