The interface of the university of Rwanda, college of business and economics (UR-CBE) and the neighbourhood - a case study Gikondo campus Kinunga cell.

Abstract

The study was purposely conducted to examine the interface of the University of Rwanda’s College of Business and Economics (UR-CBE) Gikondo campus and its neighborhood in Kinunga Cell. The specific objectives were to determine the rate of business growth around CBE, identify the business linkages between CBE and surrounding community and establish the effect of CBE on social development of the community in Kinunga Cell. The researcher used analytical/explanatory research design with a single case study approach. The sample size was 373 people who were selected from both CBE and its neighborhood but only 227 were able to provide data. These respondents were selected by use of simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The questionnaire and interview guide were used to collect primary data while documentary checklist was used to collect secondary data. Data entry was done by use of MS Excel which produced table, charts and graphs that were backed by frequency and percentages. Data analysis and reporting was done within the context of the data produced. In terms of business growth around CBE, the study finds that 37% were dealing in general merchandize, 24% in hospitality and 15% were engaged in stationary services. The study found out that 64% were operating two or more businesses and they were attracted to locate businesses by high population (41%), academic pursuit at CBE (26%) and easy access of labor force (21%). Forty five (45%) of businesses get customers come from educational institutions followed by 41% who get them from area residents. This shows how CBE has become a market hub for Kinunga businesses. Business competition was rated as very high (60%) and high (34%) also noted that competition was high. This shows that there are increased costs of doing business in the area. The major role of CBE in the growth of local business were identified as creation of CBE-affiliated enterprises (99%), growth of infrastructure (99%), creation of market (98%), skills development (97%), networks and business clusters (96%), knowledge and skills transfer (89%) and provision of consultancy services (59%). Similarly, CBE has benefited from the local community areas such as easy access to goods and services (95%), market for CBE consultancy services (93%), provision of student internship placements (87%) and supplying labor force to CBE (78%). This shows that contributions are reciprocated. It must be recognized that CBE has also contributed to the social development of Kinunga Cell. The social contributions to the local community were identified as cultural change (99%), employment opportunities (99%), break up of social barriers (97%), community development (97%), behavioral change (96%), growth of social centres (94%), social harmony and peace building (92%), population growth check (89%), increased social capital (78%), growth of social networks (77%) and social change through social research (74%). The local businesses need to diversify their income generating activities since CBE market is unreliable when the college sends students on holidays.