Enhanced Security Equipment And Its Effects On Crime In Selected Higher Learning Institutions In Kenya

ABSTRACT

Security is a first-order or necessary precondition for the development of societies. Several security measures have been proposed for implementation in higher learning institutions with the aim of reducing insecurity incidents. Even with these measures in place, increasing cases of insecurity in higher learning institutions continue to be reported. This study sought to examine the enhanced security equipment and its effect on crime in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya. The specific objectives were: to assess the prevalence of insecurity incidents in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya; to examine competency of security personnel in addressing insecurity incidents in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya; to analyse security equipment available and their effectiveness in enhancing security in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya; to determine the level of security awareness among stakeholders in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya; and to assess the intervening effect of policy in enhancing security in selected higher learning institutions in Kenya. The study was guided by Securitization and Competence theories. Quantitative and qualitative approaches were used, with descriptive research design guiding the study. The target population was the staff in the security departments of the Kenya College of Accountancy University and the Multimedia University of Kenya. Stratified, simple and purposive sampling techniques were used to generate the sample. The study examined primary data which was collected using questionnaires and key informant guides. The study findings were that there is an increase in insecurity incidents that have been reported for crimes committed by students, while there has been a decrease in crimes committed by outsiders. The study observed that most common insecurity incidents relate to thefts, burglaries and sexual assault. The findings showed that security officers are viewed as competent enough and that universities have invested in physical security equipment which have been effective in enhancing security. Additionally, it was established that there is a relatively high level of security awareness amongst students and staff and that security policies in universities have had a positive effect on security enhancement through physical security equipment. The study concludes that physical security equipment is effective in enhancing security in universities and recommends that universities invest in physical security equipment as a way of improving security situation.