Perceived Influence of Trade Unions on Terms and Conditions of Service and Job Security of Employees at Kisii University-kenya

Abstract

Trade Unions organises for protection and promotion of the interests of their members in particular and workers in general. It generally pursues the broad objective of steady employment, which is something the employer may not be able to guarantee to the workers. Achievement of this aspiration may, therefore, involve workers in political action, through their unions, for maintenance of full employment. The general objective of the study was to establish the perceived influence of trade unions on terms and conditions of service and job security of employees at Kisii University. The study accomplished between March and July, 2013. The researcher used a descriptive research design basing on the use of qualitative and quantitative approaches for stated objectives that was adopted. The study was conducted at Kisii University located in Kisii town. The target population for this study was academic and non academic staff in Kisii University under KUSU, KUDHEIA and UASU, a total sample of 809 employees who are in different departments were used. The researcher used self administered questionnaire as research tool to collect data from the respondents. The researcher, with the help of supervisor used Content Valid Index (CVI) which is a scale developed by computing or rating the relevant items in the instrument or questionnaire by checking their clarity, the researcher ensured the degree of consistency/stability, the researcher checked for reliability in relevance, clarity and ambiguity of items in the instrument. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics especially the mean scores, frequency tables and percentages

were used to show the extent to which the respondents agreed or disagreed with the statements in the questionnaire. Data presentation was presented in tables and charts. The study is significant to policy makers as it will provide insight information on the perceived influence of the Trade Unions in championing for continued improvement of terms and conditions of service for university employees. Additionally, the findings will enable TUs in universities to understand the perceptions of employees to the unions to make informed decisions on employees’ terms and conditions of service for reasonable Collective Bargaining Agreements. The findings will also strengthen the relationship between the employer and employee during Collective Bargaining Agreements negotiations. The study was conducted amongst the Kisii University UASU,KUDHEIA and KUSU Chapter Officials and unionized employees.