THE ROLE OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN ENHANCING QUALITY OF EDUCATION IN RWANDA: A CASE OF RUHENGERI INSTUTUTE OF HIGH LEARNING EDUCATION
Abstract
Academic libraries serve an important function in facilitating teaching, learning, and research in higher learning institutions. This study examined the role of academic libraries in enhancing the quality of education in Rwanda, using INES-Ruhengeri as a case study. Specifically, the study assessed the availability of library resources, accessibility of library resources, and effectiveness of library services, as well as their contribution to academic performance and educational quality. The study targeted 300 respondents comprising students, lecturers, and librarians. A quantitative sample of 171 respondents was selected using stratified sampling techniques, consisting of 133 final-year students and 34 lecturers. In addition, 4 librarians were purposively selected as key informants to provide qualitative insights into library operations, resource management, and service delivery. The study employed a concurrent triangulation mixed-methods approach to integrate quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS through descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequencies, percentages, Chi-square tests, correlations, and regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that academic libraries contribute significantly to improving educational quality through enhanced access to learning materials (29.2%), improved research skills (26.3%), and improved academic writing skills (23.4%). Furthermore, 64.3% of respondents reported improvement in research skills, while 73.1% agreed that library utilization contributed positively to their academic performance. However, challenges affecting effective library utilization included limited access to books and journals (26.3%), inadequate digital library resources (20.5%), insufficient study spaces (17.5%), and poor internet connectivity (14.6%). The study concludes that academic libraries play a critical role in supporting teaching, learning, and research processes at INES-Ruhengeri, although further improvements are required. The study recommends strengthening both print and digital library resources, improving internet connectivity and access to electronic databases, expanding study facilities, enhancing user training programmes, and increasing library-based research workshops.
Keywords: Role of Academic, Libraries, Quality of Education, Rwanda, Ruhengeri Instutute, High Learning Education
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