Abstract:
Fashion design training has been gaining momentum with many youths enrolling in different fashion design courses in institutions across Kenya. This increase in enrolment has been attributed to economic gains attached to fashion design. However, despite this increase, it has been noted that enrolment among males is still lower than their female counterparts. This study examined socio-cultural factors that influence male enrolment patterns in fashion design courses in vocational training centres in Kenya. The study employed a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data from a random sample of 40 male students in four vocational institutions in Murang’a County, Kenya. Using Pearson R test, it was established that modernization, art, technology, lifestyle and education were positively related to male enrolment while customs, values, attitude, religion, family, sexism, lack of mentorship and confidence were negatively related to male enrolment to fashion design training programs. It was observed that both social and cultural factors influence male enrolment to fashion design straining in Kenya. It is recommended that mentorship programs be carried out specifically among boys, right from primary schools to ensure that they are well socialized and understand the importance of fashion industry as it is in other industries. Change of attitude, customs benefits and values must be encouraged by stakeholders to bridge the gender gap in fashion industry. Training institutions should adopt strategies that target men in recruitment of trainees. While fashion companies should influence positive attitude towards fashion using targeted advertising and promotions.
