Factors that motivate students to participate in community engagement projects: A case of commerce students at Fort Hare University, South Africa

摘要

This study investigated factors that motivate university students to participate in community engagement projects. Specifically, the study sought to identify factors that motivate students to participate in community engagement projects at Fort Hare University, identify perceived benefits of community engagement to students, investigate activities of students’ societies that are involved in community engagement projects at Fort Hare University and therefore establish the role of the university management in supporting students’ societies. Questionnaires were used to gather data from respondents. Convenience sampling method was used. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that students are motivated by the desire to satisfy their needs and also by goals that they want to achieve. Institutional support also plays a role in motivating students. It is recommended that institutions of higher learning should support students’ societies and encourage students to participate in community projects. Students are encouraged to participate in community engagement projects for they will also benefit.