A situational analysis on implementation of physical infrastructure policy in public pre-schools in Marigat sub county, Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

The world conference on EFA held in Jomtien – Thailand in 1990 and subsequently in Dakar-Senegal in 2000 initiated a significant global educational agenda in relation to ECDE. Among the aims of the conference was to strengthen pre-school education in the world to ensure holistic integrated services that create a strong foundation for children. Physical infrastructure cut across all aspects of holistic growth and development physical, cognitive, emotional, moral and spiritual). It is on this premise that the current research focused on physical infrastructure in public pre-school in Marigat Sub County, Baringo County. This research was guided by the following objectives; examine the adequacy of classrooms and furniture in public pre-school, find out the state of the provision of water and sanitary facilities, establish availability of outdoor play space and playing equipment, determine the toilet: pupil ratio and recommend measures that can be put in place to improve physical infrastructure in public pre-school in Marigat Sub County, Baringo County. The study used descriptive research design. The target population comprised of 201 headteachers, 201 pre-school teachers and one Sub County Early Childhood Education Officer. Simple random sampling technique was used to obtain sample of 60 public pre-schools. Purposive sampling was used to select 60 Head teachers, 60 pre-school teachers and a Sub County Early Childhood Education Officer (DICECE). Structured questionnaire, interview and observation schedule instruments were used to collect data. The data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented in form of tables and charts. The classrooms, desks and chairs, play equipment‘s, toilets/latrines, kitchen and water and sanitation were insufficient, while outdoor play space were available but not well maintained. The ECD classes were not provided with the appropriate child size furniture. The classrooms were not of standard sizes according to the MOE guidelines and there was no adequate lighting system within the classrooms. The schools do not provide safe drinking water to be used in the kitchen, drinking, play activities and washing hands. The pre-schools had toilets/latrine for boys, girls but not specifically designed for young children. Teacher‘s toilets were also available. The play equipment‘s were not appropriate for all children and were not safe and securely fixed to protect children from injury. The study recommended that physical facilities should be regularly monitored and provided in ECD in accordance with the policy. The study is significant to the management of pre-schools in Marigat Sub County on provision of physical infrastructure in ECDE centres.