Socio-economic factors influencing Muslim university student participation in sports in Kenya
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Date
2009
Authors
Wabuyabo, I.
Wamukoya, Edwin K.
Shakil, A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
There is a strong theological background supporting sports in Islam (Qur 'an, 16:8). However, this
is on condition that it is lawful and does not hamper other religious obligations (Qur'an 2: 219,
5: 91-92). Studies validate significant benefits of participating in physical activities. For instance
exercise has been used in prevention and management of Coronary heart disease, Hypertension,
Blood lipids and lipoprotein profile, Cardiac function, Bone mineral status, Smoking risks, Body
composition and weight control, Blood glucose regulation, Musculoskeletal disorders and Stress
management and mental health among others. Despite this, there is still a gap between the theory
and practice regarding participation in sports among Muslim students in Kenyan universities. The
purpose of this study was to find out what causes the low Muslim students' participation in sports
and in which ways Islam influences their participation in sports. The study adopted a survey design.
This enabled the researcher to cover a wide area and acquire as much information as possible.
This also enabled the researcher get the information about the situation as it is. Factors under
investigation were gender as an independent variable while participation and level of performance
were the dependent variables. The target population was 920 from the six public universities in
Kenya. Under the guidance of the supervisors, a questionnaire was constructed on a five - point
likert scale and then used to acquire information. Random sampling was used to select 252 out of the
target population of920. Descriptive statistics were used to describe students 'participation levels in
sport. ANOVA was used to determine gender differences. Results showed. Three out offive structural
factors affecting Muslim student' participation in sports showed significance difference (047, .000,
and. 010); two out of seven of socio-economic factors tested showed significance difference (001,
.000)). Based on the findings of this study the following recommendations are suggested to guide
in policy formulation and further research. Games teachers and coaches should be designed to fit
various participants without infringement on their faith i.e. programmes that do not segregate on
basis of faith. Department in charge of sports and games in institutions like the universities and
teacher colleges should expand awareness of benefits of participating in physical activities among
the Muslim society to change the generalized misconceptions held about participation in Physical
. activities. Institutions need to expand sports facilities to help attract and encourage both male and
female students to participate in physical activities. Broader studies should be conducted to identify
other factors affecting Muslim (and other denominations) students participation in sports at other
levels of learning in Kenyan institutions.
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Citation
African Journal of Applied Human Sciences, vol 1, iss 1 2009