EVALUATION OF INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSES TO COVID-19: THE CASE OF PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN ETHIOPIA

Abstract:
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to educational institutions worldwide, including public higher education institutions in Ethiopia. This study aims to evaluate the institutional responses implemented by public higher education institutions in Ethiopia during the COVID-19 pandemic. The evaluation focuses on understanding the effectiveness of strategies, policies, and measures undertaken by these institutions to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on teaching, learning, research, and overall institutional functioning.

This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The study gathers primary data through interviews, surveys, and document analysis. Key stakeholders, including administrators, faculty members, students, and relevant government officials, will be interviewed to gain insights into their experiences and perceptions of the institutional responses.

Additionally, a survey will be conducted among a representative sample of students and faculty members to gather quantitative data on their satisfaction with the implemented measures, challenges faced, and suggestions for improvement. Document analysis will involve reviewing official guidelines, policies, and reports issued by public higher education institutions and the Ethiopian government.

The evaluation will be guided by a theoretical framework that draws on concepts such as crisis management, organizational resilience, and educational continuity. The analysis of qualitative and quantitative data will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of institutional responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The findings of this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on crisis management in the higher education sector, particularly in the context of developing countries like Ethiopia. The results will inform policymakers, administrators, and other stakeholders about the effectiveness of specific strategies and policies implemented during the pandemic. Additionally, the study will identify best practices and lessons learned, which can guide future preparedness and response efforts in similar contexts.

Overall, this evaluation aims to provide valuable insights into the institutional responses of public higher education institutions in Ethiopia to the COVID-19 pandemic. By identifying successes and challenges, the study seeks to facilitate evidence-based decision-making, foster resilience, and contribute to the long-term improvement of the higher education system’s preparedness for future crises.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page                                                                                  i

Declaration                                                                                ii

Approval Page                                                                           iii

Dedication                                                                                  iv

Abstract                                                                                     vi

Table of Contents                                                                      vii

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1    Introduction                                                 1

1.2  Background of the study       3

1.3    Statement of the General Problem                                  4

1.4    Objective of the study                                                       5

1.5    Significance of the study                                                  5

1.6    Statement of hypothesis                                                   6

1.7    Scope of the study                                                             6

1.8    Limitation of the study                                                     7

1.9    Definition of terms                                                            7

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0    Introduction                                                                      9

2.1    Review of related literature                                             9

2.2    Theoretical framework

2.3    Summary of review                                                           33

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1    Introduction                                                                      35

3.2    Research design                                                                35

3.3    Area of study                                                                    35

3.4    Population of the study                                                    36

3.5    Sample size                                                                       36

3.6    Instrument for data collection                                          36

3.7    Reliability of the instrument                                            37

3.8    Validity of the Instrument                                               38

3.9    Method of data Collection                                                 38

3.10  Method of Data Analysis                                                  39

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

4.1    Introduction                                                                      41

4.2    Characteristics of the respondents                                   41

4.3    Presentation of Data Analysis                                         43

4.4    Discussion of Findings                                                     48

4.5    Summary of findings                                                        49

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1    Summary                                                                          51

5.2    Conclusion                                                                        52

5.3    Recommendation                                                              53

Biography                                                                         54

Appendix                                                                           56