Competitive strategies adopted by institutions of higher learning in Rwanda

Abstract

This study was carried out with the objectives of establishing competitive strategies adopted by institutions of higher learning in Rwanda and identifying forces of competition among them. To achieve the objectives of this study, the researcher used a descriptive survey and a census that comprised of all thirty one (31) institutions of higher learning in Rwanda. Primary data was collected using structured and semi-structured questionnaires. Some questionnaires were dropped and picked later where as others were administered by direct interview. Descriptive analysis using percentages, means and standard deviation was used to analyze the data using tables, charts and graphs. The study established that there are many strategies adopted by institutions of higher learning in Rwanda and forces of competition in general, the most employed strategy and force being differentiation and desire for the largest market share respectively. To enhance competitiveness higher institutions of learning in Rwanda use differentiation and low cost strategy by offering a wide range of products and engaging high skilled staff among other strategies. The study recommends that infant institutions of higher learning in Rwanda should benchmark and study from the best performers in the industry in order to remain competitive. The government of Rwanda should also regulate foreign-based institutions entering Rwanda and provide incentives to the local ones in order to protect them.