Determinants of Women Under-Representation in Sports at the University-The Case of Kenyan Universities

Abstract

Under-representation of women in socio-economic activity in Kenya continues to raise eye brows. At University sports, while the world stage seems to have resolved this issue; in Kenya it still seems to be a major problem. The purpose of this study was to look at the determinants of under-representation of women in sports at Kenyan Universities. Sports departments in Kenya suggest that they offer the same opportunities for men and woman to participate in sports. So what are the factors that affect the disparity found in participation of women in sports at the university? This paper was an attempt to look at those factors that affect women participation in sports. The study used a descriptive survey research design. The study targets all 55 Universities in Kenya which had approximately 10,000 students involved in sports. Out of this, 300 students were purposively selected for this study. A questionnaire was used to seek for information from these students. The results indicate that there was a significant difference between males and female participation in different sports at the university. This was attributed to a number of factors. These factors included motivation, state of personnel that work in sports departments, facilities, and equipment.