Publication:

An investigation on causes of low enrollment rates in secondary schools in Kitui Central Constituency, Kitui County.

Despite the government calling on children’s rights to be adhered to, children are still being neglected and abused. Different parties like non-governmental organizations, faith based organizations and community organizations have played a big role in promoting children holistic development that is, socially, physically, cognitive, emotionally and spiritually but in vain. The government has shown concern on the importance of early years through the introduction of free secondary education to curb the prevailing misconception children. According to child’s act, every child has a right to education, name and protection which has not been put into practice by majority of the parents in the study area, Kitui Central Constituency being one of the semi-arid areas receive unreliable rainfall leading to drought and famine. This has exposed parents and guardians to poverty which has been the major key factor to low enrolment in secondary schools since parents are unable to support children with the required necessities. Poverty has led to high drop out rates within secondary schools. Lack of funds makes it hard for the facilities to be within the reach of children. This makes children to travel long distances when going to secondary schools, thus becoming tired even before attaining.