Factors affecting the implementation of free primary education in public schools in Rumuruti zone, Laikipia district, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the nature of the challenges that affect Free Primary Education (FPE) in marginalized areas. The study also sought to determine the extent to which each challenge imparts on FPE. The study's objectives sought to determine the challenges that affect FPE in marginal areas of Kenya. They found out the extent to which identified challenges affect FPE and established ways in which challenges imparting on FPE in marginal parts of the country can be addressed. The study is significant in that it provides useful information in which decisions touching on FPE may be addressed by the government and stakeholders in the education sector. To carry out the research the researcher used the questionnaire. Questions were prepared in advance and paused in the same way to every participant. There were two sets of questionnaires covering two categories of respondents, namely teachers and school executive committee members. Answers given by respondents were classified into common codes. The data was then analysed through descriptive statistics via the use of Social Science Programme (SPSS). From research findings insecurity rated highest followed by drought. Curriculum relevance ranked third while child labour and teacher - student ratios ranked fourth and fifth respectively. Research findings also indicated that attending school was preferable to employment. Majority of students preferred attending school so long as their basic needs were met. However, findings indicated that child labour had a significant effect on the FPE programme in Rumuruti Zone. Irrespective of the fact that small classes were preferred, good academic performance was not attributed to class size. Instead, commitment of teachers and curriculum relevance emerged as major factors positively affecting the FPE programme.On the contrary, drought and insecurity negatively affected the FPE programme as they led to low pupil turnout at school. Subsequently, the study recommended further research on drought mitigation and insecurity. In conclusion, the study recommended further research on the relationship between attitude of students and FPE as findings did not make distinct observations. The research also recommended further research on ways of improving security. Recommendations were also made on further studies on ways of mitigating drought.