Application of Best Management Practices in Curriculum Leadership in Production of Quality Graduates in Universities in Kenya

Universities play a critical role in contributing to the economic development of any nation. Universities develop manpower which is a significant driver of economic growth. Management practices are linked to the success of universities in producing holistic graduates who have the necessary knowledge, skills, competencies and values that are required in a globally competitive society. Literature available indicates that there exists an astounding difference in the quality of graduates produced in different universities. The universities in Africa, Kenya included, have been lagging behind in the yearly ranking of the universities worldwide. Regardless of the criteria being used whether in terms of research output, presence in the web or skills and competences of graduates, African universities have continued to trail behind. The question has been what the African universities have failed to do to be able to compete favorably with other universities in the world. Further analysis of literature also indicates good management practices in curriculum leadership will be able to drive the universities to produce quality graduates. This take cognizant that universities offer approved curricula that have met the criteria for design and implementation. The study sets out to establish the best management practices in curriculum leadership that support production of quality graduates. The study was guided by an objective of determining the application of best management practices in curriculum leadership implemented by the universities to support production of quality graduates. The research used descriptive survey research design. The target population was 66 accredited universities in Kenya where six universities were sampled. Based on the findings of the study the universities need to actively collaborate with the industry in the development and implementation of the curriculum. The study also recommends that the universities identify and implement best management practices in curriculum leadership such as faculty development, scheduling for curriculum change and adequate resource allocation to support production of quality graduates.