The purpose of this study was to examine challenges faced by female students at the universities and training colleges in Kenya. Specifically, the study investigated these challenges which included: socio-economic status, cultural attitudes, institutional barriers, area of specialization, and influence of women role models. Additionally, strategies used by these women were investigated.
Precise research questions were: (1) Are there differences in the demographic data of the women in the two educational levels? (2) Are there significance differences between university and college women students in the way they perceive challenges to their educational advancement? (3) Which factor(s) played a major role in separating the two groups of women?
The subjects were 105 university and 149 college women students, the study's n = 254. All were selected from 10 different institutions in Nairobi area. The instruments used in this study were both quantitative by the use of self-administered questionnaire, and qualitative by the use of both open-ended questions and interview discussions. A MANOVA, univariate F-tests, logistic regression, correlations were used to analyze the data (P $>$.05).
Analysis of data revealed significant differences on the impact of cultural attitudes on university and college students. The university group seemed to be more affected in their attitudes than the college group. Results of both open-ended responses and interview discussions also supported statistical findings.
Based on the literature review, statistical findings, open-ended responses, and interview discussions concerning challenges women face in pursuit of higher education, it is recommended that, programs be undertaken to eliminate persistent negative images, stereotypes, attitudes and prejudices against women through changes in socialization patterns, the media, advertising, and formal, non-formal education. Suggestions for further research include performing a replication of the present study but with an improvement on the existing instruments and by changing the subjects to widen educational levels.
