Factors influencing infrastructure development in public primary schools in Kathonzweni division, Makueni county, Kenya

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing infrastructure development in primary schools in Kathonzweni Division, Makueni County. The study further examined how adequacy of funds, community, policies and regulations and stakeholder attitude affected infrastructure development in primary schools in Kathonzweni Division. A descriptive survey research design was used in this study. The sample consisted of 27 head teachers, 27 Board of Management and 27 PTA Chairpersons, DEO (1), DQASO (1) and AEO (1). In total, the sample size was eighty four (84). Both census and purposive sampling procedures were used to arrive at the sample of respondents. Instruments used included questionnaires for Head Teachers and interview guide for the B.O.M. and P.T.A chairpersons, AEO, DQASO and DEO and observation checklist. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, employing both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interview guide) approach. From the analysis, the following findings were made: The methods used to raise money for infrastructure development in schools include parents’ contribution, government allocation and CDF funds. The role of community members in infrastructure development include providing labor materials, repairing and maintenance, provision of finances and monitoring projects. However, these roles are affected by poverty, level of education and awareness and misplaced priorities. Tight policies such as those for procurement have been noted as to delay the process of obtaining materials to be involved in the infrastructure development process. Moreover, the policies do not show different roles that different stakeholders should play in the development of infrastructure in schools. Most of the stakeholders have a negative attitude towards involvement in infrastructure development. They are of the idea that it is the role of the government to facilitate development and not them. The following recommendations are given: Clear roles of community, government and other partners to be developed by the MoE, more stakeholders to be involved in the infrastructure development process in schools, awareness creation to be made on the need for full community involvement in infrastructure development. There is need for more money to be allocated by the government to support infrastructure development. There is also need for policy issues to be revised so as to guide clear guidelines in infrastructure development as well as avoiding the delays which are experienced in the procurement process of materials for infrastructure development.