Assessing preferences of hostel facilities in Ghana. A case study of Knust & Uew Kumasi Campus

Abstract

Hostels play a significant role in the lodging industry throughout the world. The aim of this study was to identify students preferences of facilities provided in hostels. The study was descriptive in nature with the researcher adopting the usage of quantitative data analysis techniques. Hostellers of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and University of Education, Winneba, Kumasi Campus (UEW-K). A focus group was used to gain insight into students’ perceptions of hostels and aided in the development of a written survey. The sample size of the study comprised 1500 (n=1500) hostellers selected using the convenience sampling technique. The response rate was 100% (n=1500). The study revealed a strong positive correlation between students’ consideration of Borehole/water reservoir facilities, computer/internet access, power generator, reading room, security officer, clinic/pharmacy services, specifically located dry lines, state of the art fittings (tiles, curtains, bath tubs), transportation services, hairdressing saloon and barber’s shop, kitchen/pantry facility, study bedroom, business/communication services, catering services, tennis/basketball court/gym, and persistence of rules and regulations. The female respondents particularly denied the provision of hairdressing saloon and barber’s shops in their hostels. The study also revealed a strong positive relationship between the provisions of the above listed facilities. However, the independent sample t-test results suggested that there were no significant differences in students’ consideration of the above-mentioned facilities before hostel selection; students generally have similar considerations before they select hostels for accommodation. The study recommended that Hostel managers should do well to make provisions for laundry services, business/communication services, catering services and clinic/pharmacy services and computer/internet services as they are integral to the overall lives.of.students.on.campus.