Challenges Facing the Implementation of Government Policies on Sanitation in Primary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the challenges faced in the implementation of government policies on sanitation by primary schools in Nakuru County. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was 1 sub-county education officer, 8 head teachers, 40 teachers, 16 BOM members 16 parents and 280 pupils. Questionnaires, interview schedules, Observation Checklist, Focused Group Discussion, and Document analysis were used as tools for data collection. The obtained data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Quantitative data was presented in tables while Qualitative data was presented in thematic form. The findings were; first, schools had insufficient funds to help them in implementation of the sanitation policies. Second, drought affected water supply in schools and this is a great challenge because water is a very important aspect in sanitation. Third, schools received little or no support from other ministries which are supposed to help them in the implementation of sanitation policies. Finally, there is unequal distribution of resources, schools located in rural areas and slums had little or no access to basic resources like water needed to help them improve their sanitation situation. In conclusion, schools in rural areas experience more challenges in the implementation of government policies on sanitation as compared to their counterparts in the urban areas. The MOE, the county government of Nakuru and other ministries that are supposed to help schools implement sanitation policies should work hand in hand to ensure that all primary schools in Nakuru County have access to necessary resources to improve school sanitation.