Effect of a Hundred Percent Transition Policy on Internal Efficiency in Public Secondary Schools, Samburu East Sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

Education is crucial in shaping individuals' future prospects as well as its impact on global socio-economic progress. The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of a hundred percent transition policy on internal efficiency in public secondary schools in Samburu East Sub-County, Kenya. The study was guided by four specific objectives: to assess the effect of physical facilities on enrolment rates, to evaluate the effect of teaching and learning resources on students' academic achievement, to analyze the effect of staffing levels on students' completion rates and finally, to measure the extent to which hidden educational costs affect students' retention rates at secondary school. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design. The study focused on 13 public secondary schools in Samburu East Sub County, comprising of 13 principals, 13 Board of Management chairpersons, 13 Parents Association chairpersons, 110 instructors, and 1590 form four and form three students. The study used questionnaires, an interview guide, and an observation checklist as tools for data collection. Data analysis involved the utilization of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The study findings revealed that; there was increased enrolment in 75 percent of the schools in the last three years prior to the study period. However, 58.3 percent of the schools had inadequate classrooms. 83.3 percent and 66.7 percent of the schools had inadequate libraries and laboratories respectively. Laboratory equipment were inadequate in 75 percent of the schools. This made it difficult for teachers to conduct science practical. The research also found that 66.7 percent of the schools were understaffed in terms of teachers. Also, the study revealed that all the schools studied charged extra levies apart from the school fees approved by the Ministry of Education. This led to some students dropping out of schools. From the study findings, it is concluded that, inadequate physical facilities prevented schools from enrolling more students. The inadequacy of laboratory equipment contributed to poor students’ performance in science subjects. On staffing level, it is concluded that teacher to student ratio was above the required 1:40 and this had negative effect on students’ completion rate. It is concluded from the study that the extra schools levies charged in schools had negative effects on students’ retention. Basing on the study findings on the internal efficiency in schools under the 100 percent transition policy, it is recommended that; schools should acquire adequate physical facilities, teaching-learning resources and hire enough teachers. The government should expand its capitation in financing of secondary education to enable schools to carry out development, acquire adequate physical facilities, provide adequate teaching-learning resources and employ more teachers. The policy on schools not charge extra school levies should be adhered to completely.