Influence of Secondary Education Constituency Bursary Fund Allocation Modalities on Retention of Secondary School Students from Vulnerable Background in Kenya

Abstract

The aim of the study was to establish the extent to which the modalities used by constituency bursary committee (CBC) in allocating and disbursing secondary education constituency bursary fund (SECBF) influences retention of students from vulnerable background. The study utilized a descriptive survey and correlation research designs. Ittargeted public boarding secondary schools in West Pokot and Kisumu Counties. A sample of 378 students and 83 class teachers were obtained from 24 schools. A total of 24 head teachers, 8 CBC members and 8 education officers were purposively used in the study. Data from students and teachers were collected using questionnaires and focus group discussions while interview schedules were subjected to the principals, educational officers and CBC members. Document analysis was also done on school and CBC records. The study established that there is no significant relationship between students’ SES and whether such student will drop out of school. The study recommends that; the government should provide Free and Compulsory Secondary Education to all secondary school going children, whether in boarding or day schools. Family socio-economic status should not be the only factor to be considered in determining SECBF allocation, common data bank that has details of all students be developed in every constituency to avoid duplication of the bursary fund donated by different providers