Exploration of the factors influencing access to university education by students from rural secondary schools: A case study of Kasese District in Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing access to university education by students from rural secondary schools in Kasese District of Uganda. This research used a descriptive study design on a sample of 98 respondents. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides and were analysed using frequencies and percentages. The results from this research revealed several factors that affected accessibility to university education such as parents level of income, students academic ability, the perceived ability of graduates to save, invest and start a business, the need to meet demands of modernization and value addition of graduates and self sponsorship. In conclusion, the results from this research indicated that academic ability and distance to the universities was the two major factors affecting accessibility to university education. This research recommends that students in rural secondary schools should be properly guided to improve their individual behaviour, social interactions and networks. Keywords: Factor, access, university, education, students and Kasese