Implementation of free primary school education in Kenya: A case study of Kikuyu location

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to carry out an investigation on the challenges that are affecting effective implementation of FPE in Kikuyu Location by focusing on the availability and adequacy of resources, which are necessary factors in the education process. In the reviewed literature it had been noted that with the introduction of FPE, in 2003, many children got the opportunity to attain education who had been denied by the increased cost of education. However, implementation of FPE has faced many challenges. On resources it had been noted that there are basic resources required for successful implementation of FPE. These factors include number of teachers, learning materials and physical state of buildings. To find out challenges facing the implementation and the availability and adequacy of resources, a guided questionnaire for head teachers and class teachers was used. Out of the fifty-two schools in Kikuyu Location, six schools were studied using random sampling. Data from the field was analyzed using percentages. The results helped the researcher to come up with conclusions and recommendations. The major problems experienced by-head teachers in implementation of FPE were inadequate teachers, funds and physical resources. The study concluded that the government should employ more teachers to cater for the inadequate teacher student ratio. The school community should be mobilized to provide physical facilities in the schools.