Investigation of Re-entry of student mothers in secondary schools in Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess the factors that influence the implementation of the re- entry policy. The objectives of the study were to investigate the level of awareness of the re-entry policy in secondary schools; identify the policy gaps; determine the factors that influence implementation of the re-entry policy and seek ways in which the re-entry policy can be improved to ensure successful implementation. The research was based on the rational system approaches and the functional process model. This was a descriptive research yielding both quantitative and qualitative data. The research was carried out in Nakuru County which had 43 mixed and purely girls’ secondary schools. The study was involved 8 of these schools. A sample size of 225 respondents was obtained using the systematic and purposive sampling techniques. The participants included the County Director of Education, Assistant Education Officers, head teachers, teachers, parents and students. The data collection instruments used included survey questionnaires and key informant interviews. The quantitative data was analyzed and presented in frequencies, tables, percentages and graphs while the qualitative data was organized into thematic categories according to the objectives of the study. The research established that about half of the students were aware of the policy’s existence while the others were not. Electronic media was found to be the most effective method of disseminating information on the policy. The research findings would be useful to the Ministry of Education, schools, Non - governmental organizations, parents and other stakeholders in education.