Contribution of Local Brew Abuse on Secondary Schools Academic Performance: a Case of Nyamusi Division, Nyamira County

Abstract

The researcher set out to establish the contribution of local brew abuse (busaa and changð‚€™aa) on secondary schoolsð‚€™ academic performance in Nyamusi Division, Nyamira County. The study reviewed related literature on the effects of abuse of alcohol, local brew inclusive. Data was collected using a questionnaire as the main tool. The theoretical framework was based on socialization framework theory and problem behavior and deviance theory. The target population was 657 students and 6 principals out of the twenty secondary schools in Nyamusi Division. The sample size was arrived at through stratified random sampling based on sex and school formation. The research instrument was pre-tested on 10 students and one principal who were not included in the actual study. In collecting data, the researcher sought permission from relevant authorities; the Department of Adult and Continuing Education and Community Development, University of Nairobi and the principals of the sampled secondary schools. The data collected was analyzed quantitatively using frequency, tables and percentages. The researcher took into account logistical and ethical considerations during the study. The study findings were; secondary school students abuse local brew and the practice is increasing; both boys and girls have abused local brew majority being boys; there is a significant relationship between local brew abuse and the form/class of the abuser and easy access to it. Majority of the students cited curiosity, availability and cheapness of local brew as factors contributing to its abuse. The school administrators face challenges in curbing local brew abuse in secondary schools and the major are inflexible time schedules for guidance and counseling teachers to regularly conduct guidance and counseling sessions in school as well as lack of support from parents in instilling discipline both at home and at school. The study makes recommendations for the Ministry of Education to strengthen guidance and counseling in secondary schools; the government to intervene and do away with all local brew dens around all learning institutions and heavily penalize those selling local brew to minors; parents, teachers and guardians to be role models; K. I. E to integrate drug and substance abuse education in the curriculum as well as the church, mass media and schools to integrate preventive education on drugs and substance abuse in their schedules both at home and school.