The distribution of educational resources and opportunities in Kenya

Abstract

This paper describes some preliminary data on the disparities in education provision in Kenya. Comparisons are made between educational opportunities in rural and urban areas and among different rural communities. The financial burdens of education are also shown to be distributed unevenly among different social groups. The origins of inequalities in education provision are traced to the colonial period, and the disparities in the provision of primary and secondary school places, which have persisted and in some cases increased since independence) are pointed out. In addition the quality of the education provided by different primary schools and by the three different types of secondary schools, as measured in t arms of equipment; provided, teachers I academic qualifications and school leavers! examination scores, is compared, and the prejudice against Harambee school leavers in the labour market is discussed It clearly emerges from this analysis that educational benefits are. being distributed in favour of the economically and politically powerful districts and provinces in the country. The existing stratification of school at primary and secondary levels perpetuates the income inequalities in the society.