Effects of Inter-Hall Student Vandalism on the Development of The University of Cape Coast

Abstract

Studies have shown that student vandalism adversely affects educational institutions and properties. It is also generally accepted that school facilities, adequate furniture and equipment, as well as clean ablution facilities, are conducive to a healthy learning environment. This study therefore aimed at examining the effects of inter-hall student vandalism on the development of the University of Cape Coast. The descriptive research design was employed to observe, describe and record the impacts of vandalism and interpret the relationship between inter-hall vandalism and its effects on the university. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used to sample 410 participants (comprising 390 students and 20 senior members (9 hall-masters and 11 lecturers) from the study population of students, lecturers and hall staff. The questionnaire was used for the data collection. The study revealed that supremacy, vengeance, peer pressure, and discrimination were the primary causes of vandalism with 75.36%, 60.97%, 58.78%, and 52.19% respondent identification, respectively. The regression model also revealed that supremacy, vengeance, peer pressure, and discrimination impact interhall vandalism (p < 0.001). The study further found that vandalism contributes to the destruction of school property (96.34%); induces fear and panic (94.39%); leads to defacing hall symbols (60.73%) and damages property (72.43%). Areas most affected by inter-hall student vandalism include residential halls (99.02%), recreational areas (73.41%), academic buildings (94.39%) and public spaces (96.83%). The study recommends the implementation of proactive prevention programmes aimed at addressing the root causes of inter-hall student vandalism in tertiary institutions.