Problems facing adult literacy in Central Divison of Kitui Central District

Abstract

The study sought to investigate the factors that affect adult literacy programmes in Kitui central division of Kitui Central district. The study used three sub- populations: The learners, the teachers and the key informants. The study adopted a survey research design, using the descriptive method. A simple random sampling design was used to sample the centres and the respondents standard questionnaires and interview schedules provided qualitative and quantitative data. The collected data was analyzed using the SPPS software.

The data collected revealed that the adult education centres (AEC'S) got inadequate funding from the government and therefore faced financial challenges. It was also revealed that there were inadequate teachers. The teachers were also unhappy about the salaries they were paid. The centres also did not have adequate teaching and learning materials. The study also revealed that most the adult literacy centres did not have adequate physical facilities centre did not have adequate physical facilities. Most of the centres were based in primary schools and did not have furniture of their own.

The study recommended that the government should provide adequate funds to support the programmes, just as it allocates financial support for primary and secondary schools. Adult Education plays a major role in development therefore it should be adequately funded. The study also recommended that the government should employ more teachers for all the centres. The study also recommended more research in other areas of the country as the study dealt with Kitui central division.