Factors influencing retention of girls in primary education in vumilia resettlement area at Maaimahiu, Naivasha sub-county, Kenya.

Abstract

In a case of emergency and conflicts like the post-election in 2007, communities, especially in the resettlement areas struggle to keep their children in school because of instability, shortage of resources and the threat of violence. This study sought to examine the factors affecting retention of girls in primary education in Vumilia Resettlement Area, Naivasha District in Kenya. It was guided by the following objectives ; to establish how households, girls related factors, security and children separation from their families affect the retention of girls’ in primary education. The researcher used descriptive survey design in the study. The target population was 337 (251 girls and 76 teachers) in the study area. A sample of 203 girls and 43 teachers were selected through simple random sampling. A pilot study was carried out on different set of respondents to help plan for the research. Data collected was analysed and presented through tables and narratives. The research findings indicated that the retention of girls in primary education is hampered by girls being heads of households. Schools are organizing workshops to educate parents on the need to educate their girls. The study concludes that the community should be sensitized on the need for the girl child to be in school. There were incidences of girls dropping out of school to provide for their families. The study concluded that efforts should be made to tackle girl related problems to retain them in school. The community should participate fully in offering security. The study concluded that there is insecurity at the resettlement area. The study recommended provision of adequate security. The cases of children being separated from families were minimal an indication that many girls lived with their parents or legal guardians. Girls who live alone should be re-united with legal guardians or be accommodated in orphanages. These calls for strong partnerships between parents, teachers and pupils in conjunction with other arms of the government in order to ensure girls are and remain in school