Understanding the institutional influence on the falling of student enrollments in private higher education institutions: A case of Rwanda

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the institutional influence on the falling of student enrolments in private higher education institutions in Rwanda. The study was carried out in 6 private universities that were selected using systematic sampling technique. The study was guided by the quantitative research approach adopting the correlational research design. The study employed a sample of 370 undergraduate students. In collecting the data, the researcher used a questionnaire containing 5 point likert scales. Tables, figures, percentages, frequencies, means, standard deviation and regression analysis were used in data analysis. The results of the study indicated a significant influence of institutional variables on the falling of student enrolments in private higher education institutions in Rwanda. Furthermore, it was found that the institutional variables like inflexible and unmarketable programs, high costs, inflexible payment modalities, students’ poor living conditions, poor internet connectivity, bad location of the institution and inflexible academic rules and regulations, have a significant influence on the falling of student enrolments in private universities in Rwanda. It was recommended that managers of private higher education institutions in Rwanda should strive to know the institutional variables influencing the falling of student enrolments and develop appropriate strategies to mitigate the issue.