Department of Mathematics

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Application of computational fluid dynamics in the study of agricultural direct solar dryers
(Busitema University, 2024) Kobusinge, Sarah
This study explored the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD ) in investigating the efficiency and airflow patterns of three different agricultural solar dryers. The dryers analyzed include trapezium, rectangular prism, and triangular prism top shaped designs. The primary objective was to optimize airflow uniformity and temperature distribution, which are critical factors for improving drying efficiency and product quality. CFD simulations were conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics version 6.2, with models based on the Navier-Stokes equations for fluid flow and the energy equation for heat transfer. The results identified the third design, that is, Triangular Prism geometry top shaped, as the most effective dryer design in terms of drying uniformity and efficiency, thus providing valuable insights for improving post-harvest handling and reducing food losses. The study concluded that the trapezium design offers the best performance in terms of uniform drying and energy efficiency. The practical implication of these findings is the potential reduction of post-harvest losses by improving drying technologies in agriculture. The triangular-shaped dryer provides a cleaner, more efficient drying process, promoting food preservation and supporting the sustainability of small-scale farmers in developing regions. This contributes to food security and climate change mitigation by reducing dependence on traditional, fossil-fuel-powered drying methods.
Application of computational fluid dynamics in the study of agricultural direct solar dryers.
(Busitema University, 2024) Kobusinge, Sarah
This study explored the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in investigating the efficiency and airflow patterns of three different agricultural solar dryers. The dryers analyzed include trapezium, rectangular prism, and triangular prism top shaped designs. The primary objective was to optimize airflow uniformity and temperature distribution, which are critical factors for improving drying efficiency and product quality. CFD simulations were conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics version 6.2, with models based on the Navier-Stokes equations for fluid flow and the energy equation for heat transfer. The results identified the third design, that is, Triangular Prism geometry top shaped, as the most effective dryer design in terms of drying uniformity and efficiency, thus providing valuable insights for improving post-harvest handling and reducing food losses. The study concluded that the trapezium design offers the best performance in terms of uniform drying and energy efficiency. The practical implication of these findings is the potential reduction of post-harvest losses by improving drying technologies in agriculture. The triangular-shaped dryer provides a cleaner, more efficient drying process, promoting food preservation and supporting the sustainability of small-scale farmers in developing regions. This contributes to food security and climate change mitigation by reducing dependence on traditional, fossil-fuel-powered drying methods.
Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics Technique in Food Value addition: A Case of Cake Baking using Cassava Flour.
(Busitema University, 2024) Nekesa, Diana
Cassava flour cake baking entails changes in temperature, moisture content and volume, which are closely linked aspects in the heat and mass transfer phenomena that take place during the baking process. This process of baking is often faced with challenges related to texture and structure. Computational Fluid Dynamics is therefore utilized in this study to determine the temperature and moisture content profiles during cake baking using cassava flour in dough formation. A mathematical model was applied in the baking process and solved using CFD technique employing the Finite Element Method (FEM) so as to optimize baking conditions, that is baking temperature, time and moisture content. Using COMSOL Multiphysics software (version 6.2), simulation results showed that as the oven temperature and temperature within the dough increase, moisture content reduces. Additionally, results also reveal that the temperature distribution within the dough increases with baking time. This study established an optimal baking time of 45 minutes at a temperature of 453K leaving a moisture content of 0.24KgKg. Moreover, simulated results were in agreement with those in different studies on baking using wheat flour. Based on the findings, we recommend the adoption of CFD simulations in standardizing cassava cake baking and integrating value added ingredients for improved nutritional value to give cassava a much bigger market value.
Artificial intelligence powered adaptive learning systems and students’ achievement in blended mathematics environment : a case study of Busitema university, Nagongera campus.
(Busitema University, 2026) Bwibo, Shamy Naleba
The main purpose of the study was to establish how the use of artificial intelligence powered adaptive learning systems affect student engagement and academic achievement in blended mathematics environment. Specifically, the study looked at the effect of artificial intelligence powered adaptive learning systems on academic performance of students enrolled in mathematics courses, the influence of artificial intelligence powered adaptive learning systems on student engagement and motivation in a blended mathematics environment and the challenges associated with the integration of artificial intelligence into existing mathematics curricula at Busitema University, Nagongera Campus environment. The study sample size was fifty-two (52) respondents. The study was both quantitative and qualitative and data collection tools were survey questionnaires and interview guide. A research design was descriptive cross sectional research design. Descriptive statistics presented a variance of 64 and a standard deviation of 11 which showed that the data had a wide spread around the mean, meaning that there was a high variability in responses across questions. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to establish the relationship between the variables and the result of the analysis was a positive correlation coefficient (1), which indicated that artificial intelligence adaptive tools increase academic performance of students enrolled in mathematics courses in same proportion. It was concluded that artificial intelligence tools increase academic performance of students and methods to curb existing challenge were recommended. Further research was also emphasized on other factors that increase academic performance, apart from artificial intelligence adaptive learning tools.
Assessing factors affecting maize production of smallholder farmers in Pallisa district, a case study of Olok sub-county.
(Busitema University, 2026) Mwanika, James William
Maize is a staple crop in Uganda and it bears important implications for poverty alleviation and food security. This thesis aims to assess the factors affecting maize production of smaller households’ farmers in Pallisa district specifically in Olok Sub County. The study used descriptive research design to investigate the factors affecting maize productivity in Olok Sub County. The populations of smallholder farmers in Olok Sub County were 121 and the researcher used a sample size of 57 smaller holder farmers. The researcher made use of questionnaire to collect information for research study. The questionnaire was randomly distributed to smaller holder farmers in Olok Sub County, and the researcher targeted the farmers group in Olok Sub County which regularly meets on. The data was analyzed using descriptive methods only. Research data was presented using the following; frequency tables, and percentages, bar graphs and pie charts. The findings indicated that young farmers adopt technology fast and easy as compared to old farmers. Male-headed households (HHS) are more productive as compared to female-headed HHS. Majority of smallholder farmers (SHFs) in Olok Sub County uses unpaid for family labor as a source of power followed by animal draught power, The main in maize production its fertilizers followed by land preparation. SHFs in Olok Sub County do not practice modern farming methods which are cost effective in maize production for example they do not practice minimum tillage and they do they do not apply herbicides to their crops, but they know that these modern farming methods reduce cost production. Majority of farmers in Olok Sub County do not attend field days however they know the importance of extension services to them. Significant number of SHFs in Olok Sub County Indicated that they have never received loan of which a loan is essential in farming to enable financing of farming practices, Majority of farmers did not sell their maize because less was produced and it was used to feed families. The findings also show that SHFs are aware of climate change and majorities have been affected by it. The researcher then recommended the following; SHFs in Olok Sub County should engage young farmers in their farming practices through employing attaches from colleges and universities, encourage female headed HHS to seek information on different aspects and attend extension services, SHFs cooperate and buy or hire machine power since it prepares the land well and it’s cost effective. The farmers group leader should report to the local government that they are receiving subside late to see if it can be adjusted to effectively use government subsidies. Individual farmers should also be encouraged to use subsidies effective. Farmers should also seek financial information from different financial institutions to and choose the credit facility that is affordable and meet the farmers’ needs.
Challenges Faced By Mathematics Teachers In Assessing And Evaluating The New Lower Secondary Curriculum. A Case Study In Tororo District.
(Busitema University, 2023) Chebet Gilbert
This report presents the results of study of challenges faced by teachers of mathematics in assessing and evaluating the new lower secondary curriculum in Tororo District. In February 2020, The New Lower Secondary School Curriculum (NLSC) commenced with Senior One and was implemented in stages. Regarding data gathering and analysis, this study adopts a quantitative methodology. Data was collected using a self-mode questionnaire. This research was carried out were 30 participants were sampled. The findings show that: Majority 16 (53.5%) out of 30 respondents reported that they had challenges when assessing and evaluating the new lower secondary curriculum. In terms of school challenges, results show that: 53% had inadequate training meaning that they have not yet attended seminars, workshops and mathematics conferences, 80% didn’t have effective collaboration between themselves for example sharing of work regarding the new curriculum, 87% reported that the schools lack infrastructure to accommodate all the learners, 85% don’t use technology and 70% reported about the inadequate resources while assessing and evaluating the new curriculum. The study found that teachers had a big challenge in the new curriculum, also the study suggested that the school administrators and the Government should provide training to the teachers, provide more infrastructure and resources and to provide teachers with the use of technology in assessing and evaluating the new lower secondary curriculum.
Determinants of age at first marriage in Tororo district Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2026) Namuyomba, Irene
Age at first marriage is an important demographic indicator that influences educational attainment, reproductive health, fertility, women's empowerment, and socioeconomic development. Despite national efforts to reduce child marriage, early marriage remains common in Uganda, particularly in rural districts such as Tororo. This study examined the determinants of age at first marriage among women in Tororo District, Uganda.A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed using a sample of 320 respondents selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered through Kobo Collect and analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression. The dependent variable was age at first marriage, while explanatory variables included education level, parental education, household wealth, employment status, residence, cultural practices, media exposure, legal awareness, and demographic characteristics.The findings revealed that the mean age at first marriage among ever-married respondents was 19.8 years. Education emerged as the strongest determinant of age at first marriage, with respondents attaining tertiary education marrying significantly later than those with no formal education (p < 0.001). Urban residents married significantly later than rural residents (p < 0.001), while higher parental education was positively associated with delayed marriage (p < 0.001). Cultural practices, particularly family pressure and bride wealth, remained influential in promoting early marriage. Conversely, religion showed no statistically significant association with age at first marriage (p = 0.696). The study concludes that educational attainment, socioeconomic status, parental education, and place of residence are key determinants of marriage timing in Tororo District.The study recommends strengthening girls' access to secondary and tertiary education, improving household economic opportunities, enhancing community awareness on the legal minimum age of marriage, and engaging cultural and religious leaders in interventions aimed at reducing early marriage. These findings provide evidence to inform district and national policies targeting the elimination of child marriage and the promotion of women's health and socioeconomic empowerment.
Determinants of urinary tract infections among undergraduate students : a case study of faculty of science and education.
(Busitema University, 2026-08-29) Okello, Erasmus
The objective of the study was to investigate the determinants of urinary tract infections among students in the Faculty of Science and Education in Nagongera Campus and to examine the associated risk factors contributing to its occurrence and students’ knowledge about UTIs. A cross-sectional study design was adopted, involving randomly selecting undergraduate students from different academic years ranging from 2023-2026 intakes up to 2025-2026 intake within the Faculty of Science and Education. Data was collected using structured questionnaires designed in kobo tool box and the link was shared to different respondents within the faculty to assess socio-demographic characteristics and possible risk factors. The data cleaning was done using excel and analysis was done using, STATA and descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and inferential statistics to determine associations between variables. The findings revealed a considerable determinants of UTIs among students in the faculty, with a higher occurrence among female students (60.8%) compared to male students (39.2%). Significant risk factors identified included low water intake, poor personal hygiene practices, delayed urination during lectures and laboratory sessions. The study recommended that the campus should increase the number of latrines and bathe rooms to cater for the number of growing students, safe drinking water with chlorine should be provide to students to encourage then to take more water, Regular cleaning of the bathe rooms and the campus leadership should simplify the access of medication for both the residents and non-resident students. The study also recommends that students should be sensitized about UTIs and other diseases. The study recommended further research about UTIs in other campuses.
Determinants of willingness to undertake HIV/AIDS testing among university students : a case study of the faculty of science and education Busitema university.
(Busitema University, 2026) Makwa, Jacob Wananda
Although there is an increase in the provision of HIV/AIDS testing services, the utilization of HIV/AIDS testing services among university students in Uganda has not reached the set national targets. This study aimed at identifying the factors influencing the willingness to undergo HIV/AIDS testing among undergraduate students of the Faculty of Science and Education in Busitema University. Specifically, this study aimed at investigating the awareness of HIV/AIDS testing services, the attitudes toward HIV/AIDS tests and the factors influencing the willingness to test among others. The study applied the cross-sectional study design in which the primary data was collected electronically from a random sample of 300 undergraduate students through the Cochran's formula, using a mixed questionnaire via KoboToolbox. Analysis was carried out using three techniques which are univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis. Statistical significance of relationship between the variables was determined by using the Pearson Chi-Square test. Binary Logistic regression was also used to establish predictors of willingness to undergo test for HIV/AIDS. Based on the results obtained, it is evident that 51% of the participants were males while 49% were females and 75.67% of them were not employed. In respect to bivariate analysis, it was concluded that there was statistically significant relationship between willingness to test and knowledge about HIV, awareness about HIV testing, sensitization and multiple sexual partners (p<0.05). No statistically significant relationship existed between age, gender, religion, year of study, use of condoms, employment status, distance to the nearest health facility and availability of health services. In respect to multivariate analysis, it was determined that awareness about HIV testing services (OR=20.669, p<0.001) and multiple sexual partners (OR=0.259, p<0.05) were statistically significant predictors where OR indicates that the chances of being willing to test for HIV/AIDS among students having multiple sexual partners was 74%. From the results presented in this study, it can be inferred that demographic factors are not indicators of willingness to test for HIV infection amongst university students. However, awareness and risky sexual practices affect the willingness to get tested for HIV. Therefore, it is suggested that the university should collaborate with the Ministry of Health to organize awareness programs for the unmarried sexually active university student.
Determinants of Willingness to Undertake HIV/AIDS Testing Among University Students. Acase Study of the Faculty of Science and Education Busitema University
(2026-07-09) Makwa, Jacob Wananda
Although there is an increase in the provision of HIV/AIDS testing services, the utilization of HIV/AIDS testing services among university students in Uganda has not reached the set national targets. This study aimed at identifying the factors influencing the willingness to undergo HIV/AIDS testing among undergraduate students of the Faculty of Science and Education in Busitema University. Specifically, this study aimed at investigating the awareness of HIV/AIDS testing services, the attitudes toward HIV/AIDS tests and the factors influencing the willingness to test among others. The study applied the cross-sectional study design in which the primary data was collected electronically from a random sample of 300 undergraduate students through the Cochran's formula, using a mixed questionnaire via KoboToolbox. Analysis was carried out using three techniques which are univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis. Statistical significance of relationship between the variables was determined by using the Pearson Chi-Square test. Binary Logistic regression was also used to establish predictors of willingness to undergo test for HIV/AIDS. Based on the results obtained, it is evident that 51% of the participants were males while 49% were females and 75.67% of them were not employed. In respect to bivariate analysis, it was concluded that there was statistically significant relationship between willingness to test and knowledge about HIV, awareness about HIV testing, sensitization and multiple sexual partners (p<0.05). No statistically significant relationship existed between age, gender, religion, year of study, use of condoms, employment status, distance to the nearest health facility and availability of health services. In respect to multivariate analysis, it was determined that awareness about HIV testing services (OR=20.669, p<0.001) and multiple sexual partners (OR=0.259, p<0.05) were statistically significant predictors where OR indicates that the chances of being willing to test for HIV/AIDS among students having multiple sexual partners was 74%. From the results presented in this study, it can be inferred that demographic factors are not indicators of willingness to test for HIV infection amongst the university students. However, awareness and risky sexual practices affect the willingness to get tested for HIV. Therefore, it is suggested that the university should collaborate with the Ministry of Health to organize awareness programs for the unmarried sexually active university student
Effect of social economic status on students’ performance in advanced level among selected schools in Bududa district.
(Busitema University, 2026) Khawanga, Geofrey
The aim of study was to investigate the effect of social economic status on students’ performance in mathematics at Advanced Level among the selected schools in Bududa district. The objectives of the study were to assess the relationship between parental income levels and students’ performance in advanced mathematics, examine the influence of parents’ education level on students’ performance of mathematics at advanced level, assess how home learning environment affects students’ achievement in mathematics and analyze the relationship between access to learning materials and academic performance in mathematics The study employed a descriptive cross sectional research design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data was collected from 155 students and 30 mathematics teachers from selected secondary schools in Bududa district. Questionnaires, interviews and review of academic records were used during data collection. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies, percentages and tables while qualitative was analyzed thematically The findings revealed that socio-economic status has a significant influence on students’ performance in mathematics in that 80 percent of students from economically stable homes achieved principal passes compared to a low pass rate among students from families of low income. The study also established that parental income, parents’ educational level, home leaning conditions and availability of learning materials highly affect students’ performance The study concluded that socio-economic factors play an important role in determining students’ performance in advanced level mathematics. It recommended more support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds through provision of learning materials, financial aid programmers and improved school programmes.
Effects Of Teachers’ Welfare On The Students’ Academic Performance In Mathematics In Secondary Schools Of Kween District.
(Busitema University, 2023) Cherop Grace
Teacher performance is a vital process that aids in the achievement of school goals and objectives, while also benefiting the teachers themselves. This research aimed to explore the impact of teacher welfare on student achievement in mathematics in Kween District’s secondary schools. The research employed a cross-sectional survey design, using both quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis. Data was collected through interviews and structured questionnaires. The sample consisted of 40 teachers from 4 secondary schools in Kween District, selected at random. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data was analysed thematically. The findings revealed a strong correlation between the welfare of mathematics teachers and their performance, which subsequently influenced student achievement in mathematics. The attitudes' of school leaders were also found to significantly affect teacher welfare in Kween District’s secondary schools. The study recommends that,s government should implement strategies to improve staff accommodation, provide adequate facilities for teacher satisfaction, and ensure the availability of balanced meals and medical services for teachers. The provision of educational resources such as desks, seating facilities, teaching materials, appreciation for the work done and infrastructure was also emphasized. Additionally, it was suggested that there is need for school leaders and stakeholders to provide allowances and improve working conditions for teachers, thereby enhancing job satisfaction and motivation.
Enhancing student learning through video feedback and structured reflection.
(The University of Sydney, 2025) Murphy, Thomas J.; Scarratt, Liam R. J.; Black, Jeffrey; Naeyaert, Pierre; Matovu, Henry
Formative assessment plays a critical role in promoting learning by providing students with timely, actionable insights into their performance (Hattie & Timperley, 2007). Developing feedback literacy, i.e. the ability to understand, interpret, and use feedback, is essential to fostering self-regulated learning (Carless & Boud, 2018; Nicol & Mackfarlane-Dick, 2006). Yet, many students struggle to act on feedback meaningfully, often engaging with it superficially, particularly in the context of automatically marked online MCQ quizzes (Henderson et al., 2019). To address this challenge, this study evaluates a formative feedback and reflection cycle for asynchronous online MCQ quizzes in a first-year chemistry course, designed to enhance students’ feedback literacy and learning outcomes. Following an incorrect response, students watch a concise, instructor recorded lightboard video explaining the underlying misconception, complete a structured reflection, and then attempt a similar question. The study assesses the impact of this cycle on student performance and, through a thematic analysis of their reflections, investigates how students engage with the feedback. We will also examine student perceptions of the intervention’s usefulness to provide practical guidance for educators. Keywords: Video feedback, Formative Feedback, student engagement, Artefact analysis
Evaluation of competence-based curriculum on the performance of mathematics students at Uganda certificate of education in selected schools of Bugiri district.
(Busitema Univesity, 2026-08) Namukana, Daphine
The study seeks to gage the effect of the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) on the performance of Mathematics students at the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) level in selected secondary schools in Bugiri District. The introduction of the CBC in Uganda's lower secondary education aimed at improving learners' competencies through learner-centered approaches, critical thinking, problem-solving, and continuous assessment. Despite these reforms, Mathematics performance at UCE remains unsatisfactory in many schools, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the curriculum in achieving its intended objectives. The study is directed by three objectives: to assess the extent to which the CBC has been implemented in the teaching and learning of Mathematics, to examine the relationship between CBC implementation and students' performance in Mathematics at UCE level, and to identify strategies for improving the effectiveness of CBC in enhancing Mathematics performance. The study will employ a descriptive research design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. ( Creswell, 2014 ) Data will be collected from students, Mathematics teachers, and school administrators in selected schools, namely Bukooli College, Standard High School, and Central College Bugiri. Questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis will be used as data collection instruments. The findings of the study are expected to provide insights into the effectiveness of CBC implementation in Mathematics education and identify challenges affecting students' academic performance. The study will contribute valuable information to curriculum developers, policymakers, school administrators, and teachers in strengthening the implementation of CBC and improving Mathematics achievement among learners at UCE level.
Factors associated with high poverty rate among households : a case study of Bungokho sub-county in Mbale district.
(Busitema University, 2026) Walunyofu, Jude
Poverty remains a persistent development challenge in rural Uganda, particularly in agricultural-dependent communities like Bungokho Sub-County in Mbale District. Despite national poverty reduction efforts, localized evidence on the specific determinants of household poverty in this area is limited. This study investigated the socio-demographic and socio-economic factors associated with household poverty in Maako and Nalondo villages of Bungokho Sub-County. The study employed a cross-sectional analytical research design using a quantitative approach. A sample of 119 household heads was selected using a two-stage sampling procedure (purposive selection of villages and simple random sampling of households). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Stata Version 18. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, multiple linear regression, and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed a high poverty rate, with 66.10% of sampled households classified as poor. The average monthly household income was 401,260 UGX. Bivariate analysis showed that the presence of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) Significantly associated with poverty status (p=0.004). Multivariate analysis indicated that tertiary education (p=0.004) and access to SACCOs (p=0.000) were significant positive predictors of monthly household income. Furthermore, households with heads in government employment had significantly higher odds of being non-poor (OR=2.969, p=0.044) compared to those in the private sector. House ownership (OR=1.68, p=0.051), access to SACCOs (OR=1.585, p=0.060), and smaller household sizes (OR=1.31, p=0.060) were near-significant predictors of escaping poverty. The study concludes that financial inclusion through SACCOs, stable formal employment, asset accumulation (housing), and manageable household sizes are critical in reducing poverty in Bungokho Sub-County. It is recommended that local authorities promote the formation and capacity building of SACCOs, develop affordable housing initiatives, support vocational training for self-employment, and target social protection programs toward large, vulnerable households.
Factors influencing HIV/AIDS testing and counseling among college students : a case study of Nagongera campus Busitema university.
(Busitema University, 2026) Ekirapa, Innocent
This study examined factors influencing HIV/AIDS Testing and Counseling (HTC) uptake among undergraduate students at Nagongera Campus, Busitema University. A cross-sectional survey utilizing simple random sampling yielded 65 valid responses. Data collected via Kobo Collect was analyzed using Stata and SPSS (Chi-square and Binary Logistic Regression). Findings revealed a relatively high HTC uptake rate. Multivariate analysis identified willingness to test (OR=4.120, p=0.002) and perceived importance of HTC (OR=3.452, p=0.008) as statistically significant predictors of testing behavior. In other words, structural and socio-cultural barriers (stigma, cost, peer influence, confidentiality) were not significant predictors, suggesting psychological drivers override these barriers in this specific campus context. The findings of this study indicate that HIV/AIDS Testing and Counseling (HTC) uptake among students at Nagongera Campus, Busitema University is relatively high, with 63.08% of respondents reporting that they had ever tested for HIV. The results demonstrate that psychological and attitudinal factors, particularly willingness to undergo HIV testing and the perceived importance of HTC, were the strongest and only statistically significant predictors of testing uptake, while socio-demographic characteristics (such as sex and marital status) and structural or socio-cultural barriers, including stigma, cost, accessibility, confidentiality, peer influence, and fear of results, were not significant predictors after adjustment. Although age showed a near-significant association, the overall findings suggest that students' personal motivation and positive attitudes toward HIV testing play a greater role in influencing testing behavior than external barriers, highlighting the effectiveness of existing campus-based HIV testing services and the need for interventions that strengthen positive attitudes and willingness to test. The findings of this study indicate that HIV/AIDS Testing and Counseling (HTC) uptake among students at Nagongera Campus, Busitema University is relatively high, with 63.08% of respondents reporting that they had ever tested for HIV. The results demonstrate that psychological and attitudinal factors, particularly willingness to undergo HIV testing and the perceived importance of HTC, were the strongest and only statistically significant predictors of testing uptake, while socio-demographic characteristics (such as sex and marital status) and structural or socio-cultural barriers, including stigma, cost, accessibility, confidentiality, peer influence, and fear of results, were not significant predictors after adjustment. Although age showed a near-significant association, the overall findings suggest that students' personal motivation and positive attitudes toward HIV testing play a greater role in influencing testing behavior than external barriers, highlighting the effectiveness of existing campus-based HIV testing services and the need for interventions that strengthen positive attitudes and willingness to test.
Factors influencing students’ adoption of digital learning : a case study of the faculty of science and education, Busitema university.
(Busitema University, 2026) Ajambo, Daphine
This study examined the factors influencing students' adoption of digital learning at the Faculty of Science and Education, Busitema University. Existing evidence indicates that personal, technological, and institutional factors influence students' willingness to adopt digital learning platforms. Despite this, limited empirical evidence specifically explains how these factors affect students within the Faculty of Science and Education at Busitema University. The study therefore sought to examine the influence of personal factors, technological factors, and institutional support on students' adoption of digital learning. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was adopted. Primary data were collected from 360 undergraduate students using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Descriptive statistics included frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while inferential statistics included bivariate analysis using Pearson correlation and multivariate analysis using multiple regression to determine the significant predictors of digital learning adoption. The findings showed that the respondents were fairly distributed across the years of study, with the majority aged between 18 and 22 years, and 97.5% owning a personal digital device. Most students reported using digital learning platforms either daily or several times a week. Regarding adoption, 43.9% of the students reported high or very high adoption of digital learning, 37.2% reported moderate adoption, while 18.8% reported low or very low adoption. The bivariate analysis revealed that technological factors had a positive relationship with digital learning adoption, while personal and institutional factors showed weaker relationships. The multivariate regression results further indicated that technological factors were the strongest significant predictor of students' adoption of digital learning, whereas personal and institutional factors were not statistically significant predictors after controlling for other variables. The study concludes that improving technological infrastructure, affordable internet access, reliable electricity supply, and technical support would significantly enhance students' adoption of digital learning. It recommends that Busitema University strengthen ICT infrastructure, improve internet connectivity, provide continuous technical support, and enhance students' digital competencies to promote effective utilization of digital learning platforms.
Factors Influencing The Attitude Of Secondary School Students Towards The Study Of Mathematics In Nagongera Town Council In Tororo District
(Busitema University, 2024) Khalayi, Catherine
This study investigated the factors affecting secondary school students' attitudes towards mathematics in Nagongera, Tororo district, Uganda. A cross-sectional survey of 120 students revealed that background environment, parental involvement, and learning styles significantly impact students' attitudes. The findings show that students' attitudes directly influence their mathematics performance. Parental encouragement fosters a positive attitude towards mathematics. The study recommends organizing seminars and workshops to promote positive attitudes towards mathematics. However, further research is needed to explore other influencing factors, such as gender bias, to address the existing gap in research
ICT Integration Challenges in Mathematics Teaching under the New Lower Secondary Curriculum in Bungokho South, Mbale District.
(Busitema University, 2026) Nagudi, Jalia
This study investigated the challenges mathematics teachers face while integrating ICT into the teaching and learning of mathematics under the New Lower Secondary Curriculum (NLSC) framework in Bungokho South, Mbale District. The study was conducted across five sampled secondary schools, comprising three government schools, one government-aided school, and one privately sponsored institution. The primary objective was to evaluate the operational realities, infrastructure gaps, and human factors influencing technology adoption in the mathematics classroom. The specific objectives guiding the investigation were: to assess the availability and accessibility of ICT resources for mathematics instruction; to evaluate mathematics teachers’ current levels of ICT competence and the nature of the professional training received under the New Lower Secondary Curriculum framework; to examine the infrastructural and administrative bottlenecks hindering technology deployment; and to propose practical, context-appropriate strategies to enhance ICT integration. Adopting a descriptive survey research design, the study blended quantitative and qualitative data collection methodologies to capture a holistic picture of the classroom environment. Field data was obtained from a target sample of 25 school actors, including 15 mathematics teachers, 5 ICT coordinators, and 5 headteachers, utilizing structured questionnaires, semi-structured interview guides, and observation checklists. Quantitative metrics were processed using descriptive statistical tools (frequencies and percentages), while qualitative insights were synthesized through thematic analysis. The empirical findings revealed that while functional computer laboratories are physically present in the institutions, authentic classroom integration remains severely constrained. The dominant systemic barriers identified include an acute shortage of digital devices relative to large student populations, poor or entirely absent internet connectivity, inadequate teacher training regarding pedagogical technology integration, and volatile power grids or un-electrified classrooms that render tools like digital projectors unusable. Furthermore, a sharp developmental disparity was observed, with rural institutions enduring substantially more severe resource deficits than their peri-urban counterparts. Conversely, despite these extensive structural frustrations, mathematics educators demonstrated highly receptive, positive attitudes toward digital adoption. The study concludes that successful curriculum delivery under the competency-based NLSC framework cannot occur through policy mandates alone; it necessitates a foundational stabilization of school infrastructure, targeted continuous professional development (CPD), and sustained institutional funding. Key recommendations include establishing ring-fenced school ICT budgets, executing localized, practical pedagogical technology workshops, deploying dedicated IT maintenance technicians to support classroom teachers, and expanding national grid or solar backup installations within rural schools.
Impact assesment of ICT infrastructure on students learning of mathematics in selected rural secondary schools of Tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2026) Ogwang, Moses
This study assesses the impact of ICT infrastructure on students learning of Mathematics in selected rural secondary schools in Tororo, Uganda. The research examines how the availability and use of computers, internet connectivity and digital learning tools affect students’ performance and attitude towards Mathematics. The objectives of the study were to examine the availability and accessibility of ICT infrastructure, to assess how ICT infrastructure is utilized in the teaching and learning of mathematics in selected rural secondary schools and to evaluate the impact of ICT infrastructure on student’s performance and attitudes towards Mathematics. A cross-sectional study design was used. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were adopted with a sample of 224 respondents. A simple random sampling technique was used to select amongst the students, while purposive sampling was used to select the headteachers and directors of studies. Quantitative data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation) while qualitative analysis used a thematic approach. The findings showed that the improved ICT infrastructure enhances students understanding and participation in Mathematics lessons. It’s also recommended that the secondary schools in Tororo District should focus on the integration of ICT infrastructure to support the improvement of students’ academic performance on Mathematics. This study examined how well certain selected rural secondary schools of Tororo District used their ICT infrastructure and how well their students performed academically. Students' academic achievement served as the dependent variable, while school infrastructure was measured in direct and indirect infrastructure.

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