CHALLENGES FACED BY GIRLS IN THE COURSE OF THEIR SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the challenges faced by girls in the course of their secondary school education.
 Methodology: This study utilized the exploratory research design. The study targeted specific girls within the secondary schools and those who dropped out of school aged between 14-24 years in the last four years. The sample was drawn from form two, form three and forms four secondary students. Data was generated from both secondary and primary sources. Purposive sampling was applied to get the division and the district in which units of observation have the required characteristics. The three schools in Chuluni division purposively selected were Kaluva Mixed day and boarding secondary school, Mbitini mixed day secondary school and Mbitini girls' secondary school. Snowball sampling was used to reach girls out of school. The study targeted specific girls within the secondary schools and those who dropped out of school aged between 14-24 years in the last four years. It also targeted, teachers, parents and education officer in the secondary schools in Chuluni Division The tool for data collection was a set of semi-structured questionnaires specifically designed for the students in and out of school. A key approach adopted by the study was Focus Group Discussion (FGD) supplemented by in-depth interviews and also the study made use of direct observations that were guided by observation guide or checklist. Furthermore, inferential and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Data were coded and entered into the computer for analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 23.
 Results: The girls out of school indicated that they had dropped out of school due to financial constraints. Additionally, due to poverty parents fail to support the girl child through secondary school education in preparation for higher education. This makes this group of young girls face the risk of early sexual exposure, early marriage and sexual abuse.
 Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study findings validates the Theory of liberal feminist that all sexes should be treated with equality.  The government should embark on ensuring that policies do not discriminate against girls and women - in education, in employment or in gaining access to leadership positions. Measures should be put in place to create a balance in favor of girls - by offering scholarships or school feeding programmers, through making schools girl-friendly with proper and separate sanitation, by employing more women teachers for the security of girls and as role models.