International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue IX, September 2022|ISSN 2454-6186
Hannah Ngumo1, Wambua Pius Muasa (PhD)2
1Institute of Youth Studies, Tangaza University College, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
2Institute of Youth Studies, School of Arts and Social Sciences, Tangaza University College, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Abtract: The study was to explore the leading factors of girls’ dropout in Oloolua Ward, Kajiado North Constituency, Kajiado County, Kenya. The study was aimed to determine the socio-cultural and economic factors contributing to school dropout and to suggest strategies which can be used to curb the problem. The study employed an exploratory research design using purposive sampling with a sample size of 15 participants which included 10 girls who had dropped out in school and 4 key informants who were working closely with the children. The data was collected using two Interview Guides. The data collected was analysed using thematic analysis. The results revealed that early marriage, female genital mutilation, and valuing a boy than a girl were some of the cultural factors that were contributing to dropout of girls from school. Furthermore, the findings showed that economic factors such as low income and girls working to generate income for their families contributed to dropout of girls in Olooua ward Kajiado North Constituency, Kajiando County, Kenya. Also, the findings showed several strategies to curb girls from dropping out school included enforcement of policy by government, parents to provide basic needs and offer parental care to their children. The study recommended that government and other stakeholders to sensitize the society on the importance of educating the girl child; the government to push measures that will prevent girls from getting early marriage and unhealthy relationships with older men; and to sensitize parents towards providing equal opportunities to their children and especially in providing their basic needs including education.
Keywords: Cultural factors, Economic factors, Curbing strategies, School dropouts, Girls
I. INTRODUCTION
School dropout is not a new term in Kenya and other Sub-Saharan African countries. Although the rates have reduced significantly since 1970, the number of school dropouts compared to those who enrol is significantly high (UNESCO, 2018). Globally, as of September 2021, more than 29 million children dropped out of primary school compared to 48 million in 1970 has been reported. UNESCO (2018), records that 9% of children enrolled in primary schools worldwide drop out indefinitely. Although both boys and girls drop out of school, education inequality based on gender is prevalent in society. Every child, male or female has a right for quality education in Kenya. The quality of education is measured not by the number of enrolments, but by the number of successful completions. Unfortunately, most children in