Factors influencing implementation of life skills education in primary schools in Starehe sub-county, Nairobi county Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate factors influencing implementation of Life Skills Education in Starehe sub-County, Nairobi County. The objectives of the study were to-; establish the influence of gender on the implementation of Life Skills Education, investigate teachers’ academic qualification in the implementation of Life Skills Education and to examine challenges faced by teachers in the implementation of Life Skills Education. Descriptive survey design was adopted in the study. The target population was public primary school pupils, teachers and head teachers. The sample size compromised of 354 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules. The semi-structured questionnaires had both closed and open-ended questions. Data obtained was presented through tables, graphs and pie charts. The study established that, teachers find it difficult to address gender specific content meant for both girls and boys. Secondly, it emerged that pupils learn more from teachers with high academic skills than those with low academic skills. Finally, since LSE was introduced teachers have faced numerous challenges which have continued hindering the implementation. The researcher recommended that teachers and head teachers need to be given further training in teaching methodologies in LSE for effective implementation especially on topical issues such as sexuality. The community ought to be sensitized on the importance of LSE as a way of embracing the programme and shunning away intimidation of LSE teachers. The Kenya National Examination Council in collaboration with Ministry of Education ought to ensure that Life Skills Education is examined in the national examinations. The government of Kenya should make an initiative of employing more teachers as a way of combating the high teacher; pupil ratio since teachers view teaching of Life Skills Education as an additional burden on the already over stretched teaching load. Future research on; parents view on the implementation of LSE, and relevance and acceptability of Life Skills Education program among teachers and learners were suggested.