Cost cutting measures and quality education in public secondary schools in Nyamira District

Abstract

Proper use of the available resources in secondary schools could improve quality education in Public Secondary schools. The purpose of this study was to investigate how cost cutting measures in the utilization of resources relate with quality of education in public secondary schools in Nyamira district. The survey design was used and the sample comprised 29 public secondary schools. The study employed stratified sampling technique in selecting the sample and random sampling was used to get specific schools for the study. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the head teachers and document analysis used to corroborate responses given in the questionnaire. Data collected from the field were analyzed using descriptive statistics in which frequencies and percentages were used and then interpreted. The study found out that most resources in the schools were not efficiently utilized. The ~ average class size for a number of schools was above 40 and majority of schools had pupil-teacher ratios ranging between 10 to 20. A number of teachers had a low teaching load and most schools had pupils' worker ratios above 30: 1. No proper records were kept for income generating activities. Time was not efficiently utilized. Inadequate funds were reported as the main problem faced in implementing cost-cutting measures. This was attributed to poor school fees payment. Other problems included destruction of the available facilities by students, lack of enough physical facilities, clannism, lack of commitment to duty by teachers and other workers. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that schools use resources efficiently. Schools with small classes should increase their class sizes to at least 40 students to ensure maximum utilization of resources and lower unit costs. Under-utilized teaching staff should be redeployed to schools where their services are required. Where sharing and improvisation of facilities are used the procedure should be efficient so as not to compromise quality of education and students should be counseled to appreciate proper use of facilities. The inspectorate should be prompt on and intensify school inspections to enhance efficiency in schools. In conclusion, enforcement of cost cutting measures leads to efficient utilization of school resources hence improving quality of education.